Bastia sees two of its financial officials charged

The Sporting Club of Bastia saw, this Tuesday, its former accountant Joseph Lorenzoni and its auditor Antoine Vincenti placed in custody and then charged in Ajaccio. Both men are accused of falsification, complicity in bankruptcy and participation in a criminal association, within the ongoing liquidation of a club now burdened by over €27 million in debt.

What are the exact charges?

Lorenzoni is prosecuted for “falsification, complicity in bankruptcy, presentation of inaccurate accounts and participation in a criminal association.” Vincenti, meanwhile, faces “failure to disclose criminal facts by the auditor and participation in a criminal association.” The public prosecutor also asked that both cease any professional activity, a request rejected by investigating judge Thomas Meindl.

How do these facts affect the club?

A preliminary inquiry handed to the Ajaccio judicial police a year ago revealed that accounting rules were ignored for several fiscal years. Violations include entries without supporting documents, fictitious operations and missed deadlines. The Bastia prosecutor describes the club’s financial situation as “manifestly fragile,” with negative equity for several years.

What legal consequences are expected?

Both experts face up to five years in prison. Other staff, such as Corine Piacenti and Virginie Pasqualini, were questioned but enjoy witness‑assisted status, avoiding formal charges. Prosecutors say a second wave of arrests could target former executives, including ex‑president Pierre‑Marie Geronimi.

Where does the Sporting stand on the field?

Sportingly, Bastia sits 17th in Ligue 2 with 28 points, recording 5 wins, 13 draws and 16 losses from 34 games. The team has scored 23 goals while conceding 39, a –16 goal difference. The latest result, a 0‑2 defeat to Le Mans on 9 May 2026, mirrors the current slump (LLWWD, the last two matches being losses). This poor form adds pressure to an already heavy financial burden.

What are the next steps?

The judicial investigation remains open “against X” for participation in a criminal association. The investigating judge must decide whether additional executives will be charged. Meanwhile, the club continues to search for a way out of liquidation, while supporters await concrete answers about the Sporting’s future.