Luís Filipe Vieira Protests Benfica Expulsion Attempt, Cites ‘Unfair’ Inquiry

Luís Filipe Vieira, the former president of Sport Lisboa e Benfica, has publicly voiced his “indignation and revolt” over what he perceives as a purposeful attempt by the club’s current administration to expel him as a member. This action follows scrutiny related to an incident at a September 2019 general meeting,where Vieira,then president,was involved in an altercation with a fellow club member.

Vieira contends that the inquiry is an unjust and unlawful measure, primarily due to the considerable time elapsed as the alleged incident. He emphasizes that, for over five years, his actions have not been formally challenged or questioned until now.

Vieira’s Defense Against Expulsion

In a strongly worded statement,vieira asserts that he “will never allow it to be used as an atoning argument of successive sports failures and property and credibility,which are the distinction that this direction,in the end of mandate,has to display.” He contrasts his tenure with the present leadership, stating that he restored financial, institutional, and sports respectability to Benfica, attributes he believes are now in question.

Did You Know? Vieira received the honorary distinction of “Golden Eagle” for his contributions to Sport Lisboa e Benfica.

Vieira’s criticism is directed at the current administration, led by Rui Costa, who assumed the presidency following Vieira’s detention during the “Red Card Operation.” This operation investigated alleged financial irregularities during Vieira’s time as president. The Portuguese Public Ministry indicted Vieira on multiple charges in July 2021, including fraud, tax evasion, and money laundering. The trial is ongoing as of January 2024.

Questions Raised by Vieira

Vieira has openly questioned the motives and legality of the inquiry, posing several key questions to the club’s leadership and members:

1. Who benefits from this inquiry?
2. Who are the real instigators?
3. What involvement exists from other social bodies within benfica?
4. What is the legal basis for using events from 2019 in a seemingly persecutory inquiry?
5. Are the club’s statutes being respected, especially regarding the separation of powers between the club’s various organs and its football division (SAD)?

He vows to defend his reputation and legacy within Sport Lisboa e Benfica and Portuguese sports, promising to seek clarification from the presidents of the Fiscal Council, the Board, and the Board of the General Assembly regarding the inquiry’s process and legality.

Support and Future Actions

Vieira expressed gratitude to the thousands of supporters who have shown him support from around the world. He pledged to meet the challenges ahead and contribute to the club as he always has.

Pro Tip: Stay informed about club governance and express your views through official channels to influence club decisions.

Timeline of Key Events

The situation remains fluid, and the outcome of the inquiry could have significant implications for Vieira’s future involvement with Sport Lisboa e Benfica.

What impact do you think this situation will have on Benfica’s reputation? How should clubs handle allegations against former leaders?

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