The ministry of finance has requested detailed written proposals from five football clubs regarding their tax debt settlement plans after discrepancies emerged between public statements and private discussions.
APOEL, AEL, Apollon, Anorthosis, and Ethnikos Achna football clubs publicly proposed to pay one-third of their obligations upfront through their spokesperson, APOEL president Prodromos Petrides.
However, sources indicate that during face-to-face meetings, the clubs suggested paying €500,000 immediately with additional payments within three months.
The discrepancy arose as the clubs’ new debts since May 2023, when the latest repayment scheme was implemented, amount to €4.1 million.
One-third of this sum would equal €1.34 million, significantly more than the proposed €500,000.
Finance Minister Makis Keravnos met with the Tax Commissioner on Thursday to discuss these inconsistencies, prompting the request for written proposals to ensure alignment before the government makes its final decision.
Football club sources told philenews they have submitted an eight-point written proposal, expressing confidence in reaching a settlement.
The clubs emphasised their obligation to repay state debts, regardless of how the numbers are interpreted.
The Tax Department will not withdraw its prepared charges against more than 100 former and current directors and board members, including former ministers and MPs, until a final written agreement is reached and properly evaluated.
The clubs must secure finance ministry certifications by May to participate in European competitions, confirming they meet UEFA criteria including having no state debts.
During Wednesday’s meeting, the clubs committed to paying all tax and social insurance obligations during a three-month trial period.
The total tax debt of the clubs has reached €35.5 million.
The Cyprus Football Association (CFA) would guarantee payments through UEFA sponsorship funds, according to the clubs’ proposal.
Deputy government spokesman Yiannis Antoniou reiterated that President’s instructions are to implement legislation while maintaining equal treatment under the law, as the government seeks to collect debts while facilitating repayment plans similar to those offered to other companies.
