Palace of Monaco Refute Prince Corruption Claims

The Palace of Monaco have refuted claims of corruption and wrong-doing on the part of Prince Albert II after he was accused of accepting bribes in exchange for his backing of Sochi’s successful bid for the 2014 Winter Games.

One of the Prince’s former advisors, Robert Eringer, has consistently accused Albert and last week launched an official complaint with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) of which Prince Albert is a member of the board.

Eringer stated that lavished gifts were awarded to the Prince to ensure his vote from President, at the time, Vladimir Putin and Kremlin banker Sergei Pugachev. The American is suing his former employer in a California court, claiming a breach of contract and seeking back pay in the amount of US$476,000.

In an email sent via the Palace of Monaco to the Associated Press, the Palace stated: “The Royal Palace of Monaco categorically denies the false allegations of Mr. Eringer against His Royal Highness Prince Albert II,”

“An IOC member for more than 25 years, the monarch has worked tirelessly to promote sport around the world and to defend its values.”