Soccer legend Ronaldinho Gaúcho is making headlines not for his football skills but for his alleged involvement in a crypto fraud probe.
According to a recent report, the Brazilian superstar has been linked to a crypto pyramid scheme through his company, leading to potential legal consequences. Despite being summoned, Ronaldinho failed to appear before Brazil’s Congress, further deepening concerns about his company’s operations.
Após ausência, CPI das Criptomoedas aprova condução coercitiva a Ronaldinho Gaúcho. https://t.co/g9OalFlKSl
— Jornal O Globo (@JornalOGlobo) August 22, 2023
Ignoring the call to testify
Ronaldinho Gaúcho, once hailed as one of the best soccer players in the world, is now facing a different kind of challenge. The star, who played for prominent clubs like Paris Saint-Germain, FC Barcelona, and AC Milan, was called to testify regarding allegations surrounding his company “18kRonaldinho.” The company has been scrutinized for allegedly promising clients daily returns of over 2% from crypto investments, a claim that has raised several eyebrows in the financial community.
However, in a move that raised more suspicions, Ronaldinho cited unfavorable weather conditions as a reason for his absence from the congressional hearing. This marks the second instance where the soccer icon has evaded the subpoena, intensifying speculations about his possible detention by law enforcement agencies.
Delving into the pyramid scheme allegations
The primary concern with Ronaldinho’s company, “18kRonaldinho“, is its business model, which promises unusually high and quick returns. The firm asserts its focus on cryptocurrency trading and arbitrage, but its pledge to offer its clients a daily profit of 2% has set alarm bells ringing. With its unrealistic promises, such a business model is reportedly a classic hallmark of pyramid schemes, where returns are paid to earlier investors using the capital of newer investors rather than from profit earned.
Adding to the skepticism, the Public Prosecutor’s Office in Brazil has also spotlighted the company, suggesting it could be a financial pyramid scheme. Further, Ronaldinho’s significant influence and credibility in the sports world mean that his endorsement could have convinced countless individuals to invest in the venture, possibly resulting in significant financial losses for many.
Additional scrutiny on Ronaldinho’s associates
The spotlight doesn’t stop at Ronaldinho. According to the report, his brother, Roberto de Assis Moreira, known as “Assis,” is also embroiled in the controversy. Unlike Ronaldinho, Assis appeared before the commission, albeit with legal representation. The session, however, was not without its challenges. Assis’ lawyer repeatedly intervened during the questioning, leading to mounting frustration among the congressional deputies. Some members even called for the session’s suspension due to these interruptions, though their pleas were rejected.
As investigations continue, the potential fallout for Ronaldinho and his associates remains uncertain. However, the repeated evasions and mounting allegations have certainly put the soccer legend’s reputation at risk.
For many, Ronaldinho Gaúcho is a name synonymous with soccer brilliance. His skills and memorable goals have earned him a place among the sport’s greats. However, this recent controversy serves as a reminder that fame in one arena doesn’t necessarily translate to success in another. If the allegations are proven to be true, it could be a significant fall from grace for the soccer legend. As fans and investors await the investigations’ outcome, one can only hope for clarity and justice.
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