Polish Olympic Chief Detained in Crypto Fraud Probe

Polish Olympic Committee (PKOl) President Radosław Piesiewicz was detained on August 27, 2026 as prosecutors expand a fraud investigation into the collapsed cryptocurrency exchange Zondacrypto.

Background of the Zondacrypto Collapse

Zondacrypto signed a sponsorship agreement with the PKOl in 2025, becoming the official sponsor for Poland’s team at the 2026 Winter Olympics. The exchange ceased operations in April 2026, with prosecutors estimating client losses of at least $94 million.

Allegations Involving the Olympic Chief

Media reports indicate that former Zondacrypto CEO Przemysław Kral provided Piesiewicz with a luxury watch valued at $46,605. Prosecutors allege the gift was intended to influence the Olympic chief to intervene with UOKiK, Poland’s consumer‑protection authority, on behalf of the exchange. Piesiewicz denies the claim, stating he purchased the watch with personal funds.

Political Context and Wider Investigation

The probe is also examining financial links between Zondacrypto and several political figures and organisations, including foundations linked to PiS deputy leader Zbigniew Ziobro, Confederation party politician Przemysław Wipler, the Telewizja Republika network, and Polish organisers of the Conservative Political Action Conference.

Potential Legal Outcomes

Justice Minister Waldemar Żurek announced that criminal charges are planned against Piesiewicz while the investigation continues to assess broader political connections and possible illicit financing.