Insight Crime uncovers links between Brazil’s largest organised crime network and Portuguese football, highlighting how sports can facilitate illicit activities, including ML

The PCC, known for drug trafficking and other criminal activities, exploited small and medium-sized football clubs in Portugal to launder money. This scheme came to light following an investigation launched by the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) on November 17, 2024, prompted by revelations from the newspaper Público. The investigation primarily focuses on third-division clubs, where financial oversight is limited, making money flows easier to manipulate.