Federal prosecutors in Brooklyn have moved to dismiss fraud charges against Hernan Lopez, a former executive at Fox International Channels, who was previously convicted for bribing soccer officials to obtain broadcasting rights. U.S. Attorney Joseph Nocella Jr. indicated that dropping the case was “in the interests of justice,” although specific reasons were not disclosed.
Lopez, who was the CEO of Fox International Channels, was involved in a broader corruption investigation in international soccer. Allegations suggested he conspired to bribe officials at CONMEBOL for Copa Libertadores broadcasting rights. Throughout the legal proceedings, Lopez has maintained that the charges were baseless.
This dismissal follows a complicated legal journey. In 2023, Lopez was convicted on charges of money laundering, conspiracy, and wire fraud. However, a federal judge later acquitted him, reasoning that the federal law regarding honest services wire fraud did not pertain to foreign commercial bribery. An appeals court reinstated his convictions in July 2025, but the U.S. Supreme Court is currently deliberating on whether to hear his appeal.
Lopez expressed relief at the government’s decision, stating that he has fought for five years to clear his name and looks forward to concluding the matter. The case is part of a larger initiative to address corruption in international soccer, which has resulted in multiple convictions and ongoing legal issues. The U.S. Department of Justice’s investigation into FIFA and related entities highlights the significant efforts being made to combat corruption within the sport.
The dismissal of the charges against Lopez represents an important development in this ongoing legal battle surrounding corruption in international soccer.
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