Jean-Guy Blaise Mayolas, president of the Congolese Football Federation (FECOFOOT), has been sentenced to life in prison by a court in the Republic of Congo (Brazzaville) as of March 10, 2026. The verdict was handed down in his absence — a judgment by default, as Mayolas did not appear before the court.
He was convicted on four counts: money laundering, embezzlement of public funds, forgery, and illegally profiting from a conflict of interest.
At the heart of the case was the alleged misappropriation of roughly $1.3 million in FIFA funds, including development grants and financial aid earmarked for the women’s national team and COVID-19 relief. Prosecutors argued the money was siphoned off through shell companies and other fraudulent schemes.
Mayolas was not alone in the dock. His wife and son, Lionel Mayolas, were also handed life sentences for their roles in the affair. Two senior FECOFOOT officials — former secretary general Badji Mombo Wantete and treasurer Raoul Kanda — each received five-year prison terms.
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The case represents one of the most serious corruption scandals in African football administration in recent memory. Financial irregularities had been flagged as far back as 2025, and Mayolas had reportedly been barred from leaving the country ahead of trial.
The verdict has thrown Congolese football into turmoil, with reports suggesting Henry Endzanga may step in to lead the federation on an interim basis.