Real Madrid’s star player, Vinícius Junior, is in serious trouble. He is being investigated for possibly breaking FIFA’s rules and could be banned from football for up to two years.

The issue began when a Brazilian company called Tiberis Holding do Brasil filed a complaint on April 7. They claimed that Vinícius, through a company linked to his father and agent Thassilo Soares, is involved in owning shares in more than one football club. This is not allowed by FIFA’s Code of Ethics.

Tiberis said Vinícius has connections to two clubs: Athletic Club de São João del Rei in Brazil and Alercom, a team in Portugal’s second division. According to the complaint, Tiberis was supposed to have the first chance to buy shares of Athletic, but the shares were sold to a company linked to Vinícius instead.

FIFA’s rules are very clear on this matter. Article 20 of their Code of Ethics says that players cannot own shares in professional football clubs if there is a risk of conflict of interest. This rule also appears in Spain’s sports laws.

If FIFA’s Ethics Committee finds that Vinícius broke the rule, he could be suspended for up to two years. That would be a huge problem for both Real Madrid and the Brazil national team, especially with big tournaments coming up.

The investigation has also shown that Vinícius’ father and agent have been getting more involved in football investments. Now, with a formal complaint filed, Tiberis is pushing for FIFA to take strong action against one of football’s biggest stars.