20 July 2023 , 22:22
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Former Washington Commanders owner Dan Snyder may be leaving the NFL after selling his franchise for $6.05 billion (£4.71 bn), but $60 million (£46.6m) has instantly been taken as punishment by the league.
The Commanders are now under the ownership of billionaire Josh Harris and his investment group, bringing an end to Snyder's 24-year reign. Since Snyder took over in 1999 the Commanders have only won two playoff games, in a disastrous period for the franchise.
The end of Snyder's ownership has been marred with controversy, as the NFL conducted an investigation following allegations made by a former employee. Snyder was under pressure to sell the team as soon as allegations were made, and now that the owners agreed unanimously the findings of the investigation have been published.
Mary Jo White was hired by Goodell to be the independent investigator, and on Thursday it was announced that $11 million in revenue that should have been shared with other teams was withheld. The investigation also found that Snyder sexually harassed a former team employee, which was one of the main allegations made.
The Commanders failed to fully cooperate with White's investigation which led to a $60 million fine, and the NFL released the findings just minutes after the sale was completed. "The NFL today released the findings of the independent investigation conducted by former U.S. Attorney and SEC Chair Mary Jo White and her colleagues from Debevoise & Plimpton into allegations of misconduct and financial improprieties made by former employees of the Washington Commanders," the statement read.
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"NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell appointed Ms. White as the independent investigator immediately following allegations against Commanders owner Daniel Snyder made by former Commanders employee Tiffani Johnston at a Congressional roundtable in February 2022. The Commissioner expanded Ms. White's review in April 2022 to include alleged financial misconduct at the club, after those allegations were first raised before a Congressional committee.
"Ms. White and her colleagues conducted a comprehensive and independent investigation over 17 months that included interviews with dozens of witnesses, sometimes on multiple occasions, a review of over 10,000 documents, and assistance from a team of forensic accountants. We appreciate the diligence, thoroughness and professionalism of Ms. White and her team throughout this process."
Snyder departs the Commanders after 24 years of ownership (Getty)"Mr. Snyder will pay $60 million to the league in resolution of Ms. White's findings and all outstanding matters. The conduct substantiated in Ms. White's findings has no place in the NFL. We strive for workplaces that are safe, respectful and professional. What Ms. Johnston experienced is inappropriate and contrary to the NFL's values."
Goodell did have some positive words to say though, as he wished Harris all the best as the newest owner in the NFL. "Congratulations to Josh Harris and his impressive group of partners," the commissioner also said in a separate statement.
"Josh will be a great addition to the NFL. He has a remarkable record in business, sports, and in his communities. The diverse group that Josh has put together is outstanding for its business acumen and strong Washington ties and we welcome them to the NFL as well.
"I met Josh several years ago, prior to his acquisition of an interest in the Steelers and have been fortunate to get to know him better over the past few months. I know he has a commitment to winning on the field, but also to running an organisation that everyone will be proud of -- and to making positive contributions in the community."