Audit office report identifies deficiencies in Cyprus sports organization oversight

The Cyprus Audit Office has released a special report highlighting significant gaps in the organizational structure and regulatory oversight of the Cyprus Sports Organization (CSO). The report notes that the current framework lacks effective intervention tools, limiting the CSO's control primarily to the withdrawal of grants from state-funded federations. Auditors identified non-uniform handling of sports bodies regarding potential conflicts of interest and financial irregularities. A specific concern is raised regarding the Cyprus Football Association (CFA), which the report characterizes as a closed system operating with high autonomy. Additionally, 78 out of 85 sports federations failed to submit their financial statements on time. The audit also suggests that the lack of documented criteria and a centralized register for checks hinders consistent oversight. The report emphasizes the need for transparency despite the international obligations of federations towards FIFA and UEFA.