Heinz-Christian Strache

After his departure, the FPÖ and the authorities examined numerous expenses attributed to Strache and paid by the party, amid suspicions of private benefits and substantial financial loss. Investigations covered different categories of expenditure and continued over several years.

State of the evidence

Documented

The WKStA announced further investigations in the 'Causa Inserate', including suspicions concerning the allocation of public advertising and favourable media coverage during governments in which the FPÖ participated.

Strache was prosecuted for breach of trust in a case involving a life insurance policy financed by the party. The court acquitted him on 2 July 2026; the prosecution announced an appeal a few days later.

Course of the proceedings

1. Formally charged — Formal charge before the current outcome

In 2026, the WKStA announced the indictment of Strache and others in one aspect of the CASAG case, concerning an alleged benefit intended to influence the performance of political duties.

Attribution

Accused

Communications made public revealed numerous FPÖ preferences regarding personnel and discussions concerning ORF during the coalition period. They reinforced criticism of the party's attempts to exert political influence over the public broadcaster.

State of the evidence

Documented

Attribution

Directly implicated

Strache had been convicted at first instance in a case involving a donation linked to the owner of a private clinic and a legislative amendment concerning PRIKRAF. The decision was overturned; at the retrial he was acquitted, and the acquittal became final in March 2023.

Attribution

Accused

Course of the proceedings

1. Formally charged — Formal charge before the current outcome

Strache was tried in a case in which the prosecution suspected a link between a donation and an appointment or favour connected with ASFINAG. He was acquitted, and the higher court upheld the acquittal in 2023.

Attribution

Accused

Course of the proceedings

1. Formally charged — Formal charge before the current outcome

A video secretly recorded in Ibiza in 2017 showed Strache discussing political support, influence over a major media outlet and possible public contracts with a woman presenting herself as close to a Russian oligarch. Its publication in May 2019 led to his resignation as vice-chancellor and FPÖ leader and the collapse of the coalition.

State of the evidence

Documented

Attribution

Personally implicated

Strache published an image presented as satire accusing the ORF of spreading lies and false information and using presenter Armin Wolf's likeness. An agreement led to an apology, retraction and compensation.

State of the evidence

Settlement

Attribution

Directly implicated

Strache circulated the claim that a photograph of refugees had been staged. Following action by the photographer, he withdrew the claim, apologised and agreed to a settlement including a financial contribution to a charity.

Attribution

Personally implicated

Strache published a cartoon depicting a banker with visual features denounced as antisemitic by organisations and political figures. An investigation into incitement was opened and subsequently closed without further action, prosecutors finding no offence.

State of the evidence

Documented

Attribution

Personally implicated

Old photographs showing Strache wearing camouflage during paramilitary-style exercises or games were published, with individuals associated with far-right networks also present. The case raised lasting questions about his youthful associations.

State of the evidence

Documented