Washington Commanders owner Dan Snyder is under scrutiny following an extensive expos by a television network, alleging that he is under federal investigation for fraudulent dealings. Snyder is seeking up to $7 billion for the Commanders after the NFL forced him to relinquish ownership of the club. It remains to be seen who will be the new owner, although it is feared that the sale may not proceed.
After buying out his three former partners following a dispute in which he was accused of multiple irregularities, including receiving a secret shipment of $55 million, Snyder remains under scrutiny and could be removed as owner of the Commanders.
According to ESPN’s investigation, Snyder informed his partners of plans to claim over $7 million in “unreimbursed business expenses” between 2017-20.
Luxury yacht party with Cowboys and Pats owners listed as expenses
The letter also stated that Snyder wanted to be reimbursed for an additional $1 million in vehicle and extra security expenses during trips to other countries.
But what is currently making headlines as part of the investigation is a luxury yacht party organized by Snyder and listed as a business expense by him. The party, which took place in 2018, was attended by Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones, New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft, and Buffalo Bills owner Terry Pegula.
“This included ‘world-class cuisine prepared by some of the world’s top personal chefs and wine/drinks of the highest quality’,” the partners said as part of a petition for the NFL to remove him as owner.
Since then, co-owners Dwight Schar, Robert Rothman, and Frederick Smith have sold their 40% stake to Snyder for $875 million.
Snyder is accused of acting to cover up misconduct; when Smith considered selling his 10% stake in 2018, Snyder informed him that the proposed buyer would not fly with other NFL owners. That buyer acquired a stake in the Atlanta Falcons in 2019.