Lorient are facing scrutiny from the French justice system regarding the contracts of former manager Olivier Pantaloni and midfielder Laurent Abergel, according to a report by Mediapart. An initial investigation was opened in 2024, focusing on potential links between player agents and clubs in Ligue 1, and has now turned towards the circumstances surrounding the pair’s agreements with the Breton club.
The focus of the investigation is not primarily on Pantaloni or Abergel themselves, but rather on those involved in the negotiation and signing of their respective contracts. Both are represented by Andria Nativi, who heads the agency N.Agency, established in 2021. However, the involvement of Christophe d’Amico in the contract signings has drawn the attention of the Central Service of Courses and Gambling and the National Anti-Fraud Office.
D’Amico is reportedly being investigated for allegedly operating as a sports agent without the necessary license from the French Football Federation (FFF). He is legally prohibited from acting in this capacity within France. D’Amico, who was briefly detained by authorities, has stated to Mediapart that he assisted Nativi on a voluntary basis and has accused Lorient of wrongdoing.
Mediapart reports that several Lorient directors have been questioned under arrest as investigators examine the possibility of the club being complicit in any irregularities. The investigation seeks to determine if the club knowingly participated in actions that circumvented regulations regarding sports agent licensing. Pantaloni departed Lorient at the end of the recent season, while Abergel remains with the club and recently voiced his displeasure following the manager’s exit. The outcome of the investigation could have significant implications for those involved and potentially impact Lorient's future operations.
