Peruvian soccer chief arrested for corruption

Agustín Lozano, president of the Peruvian Soccer Federation (FPF), was arrested in a police operation amid investigations into corruption and money laundering. Prosecutors ordered a 15-day preliminary detention while investigating allegations of fund misappropriation, favoritism toward certain professional clubs, and ticket scalping.

According to a 140-page court filing, Lozano and six other individuals are accused of attempting to exploit broadcast rights from Peru's first-division teams. The investigation alleges that Lozano extorted local clubs into surrendering their television rights by threatening relegation to lower divisions if they refused to comply.

Among the specific allegations, prosecutors claim Lozano misused $1.8 million in federation funds to transport 142 unauthorized individuals to Doha for a 2022 World Cup playoff match between Peru and Australia. The fiscal file also includes investigation into alleged fraud related to ticket scalping during World Cup Qatar 2022 qualifying matches, where the Peruvian team failed to qualify.

This isn't Lozano's first legal trouble; in 2023, he faced arrest warrants in an embezzlement investigation connected to his time as mayor of Chongoyape. His arrest marks the second high-profile detention of a Peruvian soccer boss since 2018, following his predecessor who was investigated for alleged involvement in two murders but was later acquitted.

Under Lozano's leadership since 2019, Peru's national team has struggled in 2026 World Cup qualifying, currently ranking second-to-last among South American teams. Prosecutors considered Lozano a flight risk and potential obstructionist, leading to his arrest. While the investigation continues, no criminal charges have been filed yet, and Lozano has requested public reservation of judgment while promising to clarify any misunderstandings.