Romanian Football Federation sanctions U21 staff over Ibiza incident

The Romanian Football Federation (FRF) has issued disciplinary sanctions against the staff of the Romania U21 national team following an internal investigation. The investigation was triggered by reports of staff members leaving the official program to attend a social gathering in Ibiza involving businessman Nicu Gheară.

As part of the sanctions, sports director Marius Niculae and team manager Iulian Oțelea will receive a 25% reduction in their monthly compensation until the end of 2026. This measure serves as a final warning, with any further misconduct potentially leading to the termination of their contracts.

Additionally, head coach Costin Curelea and assistant coach Ionuț Stancu have been sanctioned with a 25% reduction in their final due remuneration. The FRF stated that while the behavior did not affect sporting activity, it failed to meet the required standards of professionalism, internal rules, and ethical conduct.