Former Dutch International Romeo Castelen Sentenced in Money Laundering Case

ZWOLLE, Netherlands – Former Netherlands international Romeo Castelen, who too had a spell with Hamburger SV, has been sentenced to 18 months in prison, with six months suspended, for his involvement in a money laundering scheme. The ruling, handed down by a district court in Zwolle on Thursday, also includes a fine of over €2 million. The case centers around allegations that Castelen laundered funds through a Chinese football club, Zhejiang Yiteng, where he played in 2017.

Arrest and Initial Investigation

The investigation began in 2019 when Castelen was arrested at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport while attempting to travel to China. Authorities discovered nearly €140,000 in cash in his luggage. Castelen initially claimed the money stemmed from casino winnings and the sale of luxury watches, but prosecutors dismissed these explanations as improbable. [1]

The Prosecution’s Case

Prosecutors alleged that Castelen spent over €2.2 million in unexplained cash on luxury items, including cars, watches, and real estate. They believe the funds originated from corruption related to player transfers and that he intended to launder the money with the technical director of Zhejiang Yiteng. The prosecution had initially recommended a three-year prison sentence for the 42-year-old former footballer. [1]

The Court’s Ruling and Financial Penalties

The court found Castelen guilty of money laundering and imposed the 18-month sentence, with half of it suspended. In addition to the prison term, Castelen has been ordered to repay over €2 million. Football scout Owen B., who was also implicated in the scheme, received the same sentence and was ordered to repay nearly €700,000. [1]

Castelen’s Career

Romeo Castelen enjoyed a career spanning several countries and leagues. Born in Paramaribo, Suriname, he began his professional journey with ADO Den Haag, where he played from 2000 to 2004. He then moved to Feyenoord, playing there from 2004 to 2007, scoring 20 goals in 65 appearances. [2]

His career took him to Germany with Hamburger SV from 2007 to 2012, though his time there was punctuated by a loan spell with Hamburger SV II. He later played for Volga Nizhny Novgorod in Russia (2013), RKC Waalwijk in the Netherlands (2013-2014), Western Sydney Wanderers in Australia (2014-2016), Suwon Bluewings in South Korea (2016), and Zhejiang Yiteng in China (2017). He finished his career with VVV-Venlo in 2018. [2]

Castelen also represented the Netherlands internationally, earning ten caps between 2004 and 2007. He was part of the Netherlands squad that won the UEFA European Under-21 Championship in 2006. [2]

Appeal Planned

Gerald Roethof, Castelen’s lawyer, has stated that his client intends to appeal the ruling. Roethof argued that the conviction is largely based on Castelen’s spending habits following his successful football career. [1] He believes the prosecution has not adequately proven the source of the funds was illicit.

This case highlights the increasing scrutiny of financial dealings within the world of professional football, particularly concerning player transfers and potential corruption. The investigation into the Zhejiang Yiteng connection suggests a broader network of individuals may have been involved in the alleged money laundering operation. [1]

The outcome of Castelen’s appeal remains to be seen, but the conviction serves as a stark reminder of the legal consequences facing athletes and those associated with the sport who engage in illicit financial activities. The case is likely to draw further attention to financial transparency and regulatory oversight within international football. [1]

As of today, March 13, 2026, Castelen awaits the proceedings of his appeal, while Owen B. Prepares for his sentence. The Dutch authorities continue to investigate potential links to further instances of financial misconduct within the footballing world.

Next Steps: Castelen’s legal team is expected to file the formal appeal within the coming weeks. The date for the appeal hearing has not yet been set. Archysport will continue to monitor the case and provide updates as they become available.