HC Sparta Praha faces financial scandal after audit

An internal audit at the Czech hockey club HC Sparta Praha has uncovered financial irregularities involving two former employees. The discrepancies are related to cash payments and the management of player equipment and hockey sticks.

The investigation involves a former masseur and custodian, Hynek Svoboda, who had been with the club for 18 years, and an administrative staff member responsible for accounting. Reports suggest the financial loss could range between 15 million and 25 million Czech koruna, with nearly 3 million koruna specifically linked to hockey sticks.

In an official statement, the club noted that the audit revealed “personal failure” and violations of work regulations. HC Sparta Praha is currently implementing changes to internal processes to prevent similar occurrences. The club stated that the matter does not affect the management or the sporting operations of the team.