Jack Edward Coles, 39, was detained by federal agents from Homeland Security Investigations at a hotel near FIFA’s offices in Coral Gables, Miami.
Coles, a project leader with FIFA Sound — the organization’s music division — allegedly met the boy on the dating app Grindr last October and engaged in sexual activity with him at a hotel, reports the Miami Herald.

He reportedly returned to Miami last week and attempted to meet the teen again, unaware that he was under federal investigation.

FIFA confirmed it was aware of the case but stressed that the allegations were a “personal matter” unrelated to Coles’ work with the organisation.

“FIFA is aware of ongoing legal proceedings in Miami. The alleged offenses are serious and of a personal matter with no link to his work at FIFA,” the world soccer body said in a statement Wednesday.

“The individual has been suspended with immediate effect and until further notice from all duties. FIFA has no further comment at this stage,” it said.

The Miami Herald reports that Coles first contacted the teen via Instagram on October 10, asking him to visit him at the Hyatt Regency in Coral Gables.

The boy told Coles he was 16, according to the complaint.

The Brit initially responded that they would not have sex because of his age, writing: “I don’t want to break any laws.”