A Greek prosecutor has brought criminal charges against the former president of the Hellenic Football Federation (EPO), Vassilis Gagatsis, for alleged breach of duty over the handling of a UEFA donation in 2008. According to the charges Gagatsis misused one million CHF in UEFA donations to pay a bonus to then German coach Otto Rehhagel.
Court officials said on Monday the charges are connected with one million Swiss Francs ($1 million) earmarked for rebuilding soccer facilities damaged by forest fires that ravaged parts of southern and central Greece in 2007, killing more than 70 people.
According to the charges, Vasilis Gagatsis — now general director of Super League — instead used the funds for a bonus payment in the account of then German coach of Greece’s National Football team, Otto Rehhagel.
Prosecutor’s investigation revealed that EPO had no contractual obligation to deposit the bonus to Rehhagel.
Gagatsis had no immediate comment.
Rehhagel was the architect of Greece’s unexpected 2004 European Championship victory in Portugal. He is not being investigated for any wrongdoing.
The case had reached Justice after a complaint filed by a Greek-American with roots in the fire-stricken areas, who pointed out that UEFA’s money never reached those for whom they were granted.
