Suspended Alberta Soccer President Welcomes Independent Panel Review

The suspended president of the Alberta Soccer Association says he is “relieved” after a key development that will see harassment allegations against him reviewed by an independent panel.

JR Figueiredo, who was handed a five-year suspension in November 2025, had been accused of workplace harassment following a third-party investigation. The probe concluded he made verbal threats toward an employee and contributed to a hostile work environment.

The decision to involve an independent panel comes after mounting pressure from several regional organizations, including the Calgary Women’s Soccer Association, Edmonton Minor Soccer Association, St. Albert Soccer Association, and Battle River Soccer Association. These groups had previously challenged the suspension in court, arguing that proper procedures were not followed. However, their case was dismissed, and they were ordered to cover legal costs.

At the association’s annual general meeting in Edmonton, delegates successfully pushed for the matter to be reviewed independently—despite resistance from the board. While the suspension remains in effect, the move is being seen as a step toward ensuring a fair and transparent process.

“It’s not over, but this step ensures the matter is handled properly,” Figueiredo said, emphasizing that he had been seeking an impartial review since the beginning.

The governance landscape within Alberta Soccer has also shifted, with five new board members elected during the meeting, leaving only one member from the previous board in place. The former board has maintained that the suspension was necessary due to the seriousness of the allegations, legal obligations to maintain workplace safety, and insurance considerations.

Details regarding the structure, selection, and timeline of the independent panel have yet to be released, leaving uncertainty around how quickly the process will unfold.

Meanwhile, a related legal appeal filed by the four soccer organizations remains scheduled for May 15 at the Court of King’s Bench. It is unclear whether the new independent review will impact those proceedings.

The harassment complaint, initially filed in August 2025, led to an investigation conducted by Veritas Solutions. The findings indicated that Figueiredo’s conduct exceeded acceptable workplace standards, citing threats, interference in staff duties, and behavior that fostered a toxic environment.

Authorities, including Alberta Occupational Health and Safety, continue to monitor the situation, while Canada Soccer has acknowledged awareness of the case.

As the process moves forward, Figueiredo says his focus remains on restoring trust and ensuring the organization can return its attention to youth development and the sport itself.

Courtesy: ctvnews