Slovak Football Federation faces financial crisis over unpaid coach wages

The Slovak Football Federation (SFZ) is in a severe financial strain, with more than 50 youth coaches and sport directors demanding immediate payment of three months' salaries for April, May and June 2026. The unpaid wages total millions of euros and have prompted public statements from the coaches, who warned they would pursue legal action if the funds are not released.

At an extraordinary SFZ conference, a proposal for a comprehensive audit of the federation and its marketing subsidiary was narrowly rejected. Delegates voted 22 in favour, 27 against, 21 abstaining and three not voting, meaning the audit – seen by many as a path to financial transparency – will not proceed. The dispute follows the re‑election of SFZ president Ján Kováčik and ongoing tensions with the Slovak sports ministry.