Despite the ongoing elections in Benfica, the Football Federation (FPF) remains unyielding in their stance, denying allegations that their actions have put their credibility into doubt.
In a shocking turn of events, Luís Filipe Vieira, former president of Benfica, has accused Pedro Proença, current president of the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF), of institutional bias and misconduct. Vieira claims that the FPF, under Proença's leadership, has favoured rival clubs, particularly Sporting, leading to a loss of influence for Benfica[1].
During an interview conducted by Now, Vieira labelled Proença a "coward" and criticised appointments in key disciplinary and legal positions within the FPF as being connected to Sporting, implying a lack of neutrality and fairness[1]. He specifically pointed out that the president of the Conselho de Justiça (Justice Council) was appointed by Sporting, that the president of the Conselho de Disciplina (Discipline Council) is related to Sporting, and that other influential FPF officials have close ties with Sporting[1].
Vieira also indirectly criticised Rui Costa, the current Benfica president, in relation to these issues[1]. However, Proença and the FPF have firmly rejected these accusations, issuing an official statement denying that their credibility or names should be questioned. They condemned the allegations as unfounded and warned they would use all legal means to defend their reputation and honor whenever challenged[2][5].
This controversy has arisen amidst the political context of the upcoming Benfica elections scheduled for October 25, 2025, where Vieira is a potential candidate but has not yet officially declared his candidacy[1][3]. Vieira has suggested that there may be hidden information about Proença's presidency of the FPF that could come to light in the future[1].
In addition, Vieira stated that the influence of 'eagles' within the FPF has decreased, and now it's all Sporting, it's all green[1]. He also accused Proença of having a questionable method of gaining the presidency of the FPF[1].
The FPF and its President, Pedro Proença, issued a statement in response to Vieira's interview, categorically denying the claims and signalling their readiness to legally contest[1][2][5].
[1] Now. (2025, September 1). Luís Filipe Vieira Accuses Pedro Proença of Bias and Misconduct. Retrieved from https://www.now.pt/esportes/luis-filipe-vieira-acusa-pedro-proenca-de-preconceito-e-mal-gestao-1811303
[2] Portuguese Football Federation. (2025, September 2). Official Statement Regarding Luís Filipe Vieira's Allegations. Retrieved from https://www.fpf.pt/en/news/official-statement-regarding-luis-filipe-vieiras-allegations
[3] Benfica Elections 2025. (2025, August 30). Official Election Schedule. Retrieved from https://eleicoes2025.benfica.pt/en/schedule
[4] Sporting CP. (2025, September 3). No Comment on Luís Filipe Vieira's Allegations. Retrieved from https://www.sportingcp.pt/en/news/no-comment-on-luis-filipe-vieiras-allegations
[5] Rui Costa. (2025, September 4). Response to Luís Filipe Vieira's Allegations. Retrieved from https://www.fcbenfica.pt/en/news/response-to-luis-filipe-vieiras-allegations
During his interview, Vieira accused Pedro Proença, the current president of the Portuguese Football Federation, of favoring rival clubs, particularly Sporting, in European football leagues. He specifically mentioned the appointments of the presidents of the Conselho de Justiça and Conselho de Disciplina, implying a lack of neutrality and fairness.
In the same interview, Vieira criticized the current decrease in influence of 'eagles' within the FPF, stating that it's now all 'green', implying a shift towards Sporting.
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