FRF imposes salary cuts on Romania U21 staff after controversial dinner

The Romanian Football Federation (FRF) announced sanctions against members of the Romania U21 national team staff. The decision follows a controversial dinner that took place in Ibiza before a match against Spain U21. The young national side lost that game by a score of 1-7.

Coach Costin Curelea, his deputy, and employees of the FRF attended the dinner. The group consumed alcohol during the event. They were joined by Nicu Gheară, a figure described as controversial in reports surrounding the incident.

FRF president Răzvan Burleanu led the federation in announcing the disciplinary measures. The sanctions targeted Costin Curelea and Marius Niculae specifically. These decisions came after the completion of an internal investigation into the matter.

U21 sports director Marius Niculae received a penalty for his involvement. Team manager Iulian Oțelea was also sanctioned. Both men will see their salaries reduced by 25 percent. This reduction will remain in effect until the end of 2026.

Head coach Costin Curelea faced a different financial penalty due to the status of his employment contract. Assistant coach Ionuț Stancu received the same treatment. Their contracts are set to expire soon. As a result, they will have their last remuneration reduced by 25 percent.

The FRF stated that this sanction serves as a final warning to the staff. The federation made it clear that similar infractions in the future will lead to more severe consequences. Contract termination is the specified outcome for any repeat offenses.