Corinthians and São Paulo face salary delays amid financial crisis

Major Brazilian football clubs Corinthians and São Paulo are facing significant financial crises, resulting in delayed salary payments for players and technical staff.

Corinthians has failed to pay August salaries for its squad and coaching staff, which were due by the fifth business day of September. The club also faces outstanding image rights and bonuses. With a total debt of approximately R$ 2.8 billion and a recent first-semester deficit of R$ 246 million, the club is currently under a transfer ban from FIFA and the CBF. These financial struggles coincide with a critical period in the Conmebol Libertadores quarterfinals.

São Paulo is also experiencing payment delays, having missed September salary deadlines and accumulating three months of unpaid image rights from June to August. To alleviate the crisis, the club is seeking a R$ 140 million advance through a new ticketing management contract with Ticketmaster. However, this deal is currently subject to internal political disputes and requires approval from the Deliberative Council.