Romario’s 2012 speech set the wheels in motion for Pat Hickey arrest

Four years ago in the Brazilian parliament, former soccer star turned senator, Romario, made a speech which would ultimately see Olympic Council of Ireland President Pat Hickey jailed last week.

Romario accused Hickey of being involved in ticket touting for the 2012 Summer Games and the 2014 Winter Games. The former soccer legend added that Hickey was the link between the IOC and firms selling tickets on the black market. At the time and since, Hickey dismissed the accusations.

On being elected in 2010, Romario made dealing with corruption one of his main priorities.