The Brazilian Senate has appointed former footballer and Senator Romario as President of a congressional investigation (CPI) into allegations of corruption at the Brazilian football confederation (CBF). It will specifically target current and past CBF Presidents, and could include investigations into preparations for the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil. It will also seek the cooperation of overseas agencies, such as the US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

The group will hold its first meeting today, following its formal appointment yesterday. A further meeting will take place on 4 August. Romario had proposed the CBF investigation and was seeking to become its rapporteur, however Senator Romero Juca was appointed to that post. Romario (pictured) was elected as a Senator in 2014, and represents the State of Rio de Janeiro.

A media release from the Senate said that the CPI’s investigations ‘may include’ preparations for the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil. Romario said that the CPI would investigate former CBF President Ricardo Teixeira, who is also being investigated by the Federal Police in connection to a number of allegations of corruption. It will also investigate José Maria Marin, another former CBF President. He is currently being detained in Switzerland pending a US extradition request based on a 47-count indictment by the US Department of Justice (DoJ) which makes a number of allegations of corruption relating to the awarding of the FIFA World Cup and related TV rights contracts. Current CBF President, Marco Polo Del Nero, will also face investigation.

“I can tell you that the work involves revealing the secrets of the CBF, federations, clubs, Directors and Presidents”, said Romario in the media release. “This is the role of the CPI and I’m sure that I will do my best to carry out this role”.