Monaco Prosecutors Launch Probe Into DR Congo–AS Monaco Sponsorship Deal

Authorities in Monaco have opened a preliminary investigation into allegations of corruption, money laundering, and misappropriation of public funds linked to a sponsorship agreement between the government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the French football club AS Monaco.

The probe was initiated this week by Monaco’s Chief Prosecutor, Stéphane Thibault, whose office is now examining the circumstances surrounding a €4.8 million sponsorship deal signed in June 2025 between Kinshasa and the Ligue 1 club.

For months, officials from the Congolese government had publicly celebrated the agreement with Monaco, presenting it as a strategic initiative aimed at promoting the country’s international image and boosting tourism. Authorities described the partnership as part of broader efforts to attract foreign visitors and strengthen the country’s visibility through sports marketing.

However, critics and analysts monitoring the deal have questioned its true motivations. Some observers argue that the initiative was less about promoting tourism and more about countering the visibility of the Visit Rwanda brand, which has gained global attention through sponsorships with major European football clubs.

The investigation was reportedly triggered by a legal complaint filed in September by lawyer Hervé Diakiese, acting on behalf of two Congolese citizens living in France. The complaint was submitted to financial crime prosecutors and raised concerns about possible irregularities in the use of public funds linked to the sponsorship deal.

Monaco prosecutors are now expected to examine financial records and contractual arrangements to determine whether any criminal wrongdoing occurred in the negotiation or execution of the agreement.