By Trend News Line 2024-04-03 11:27:09.
Detention of Luis Rubiales in Corruption Probe
Former soccer federation president Luis Rubiales was detained by Spanish police upon his return to the country amid an ongoing corruption probe, according to Spain’s Civil Guard. Rubiales was questioned by police at Madrid’s airport after being detained upon exiting the plane that brought him back home from the Dominican Republic. The police have 72 hours to hand Rubiales over to a judge or release him.
Investigation and Allegations
Rubiales was in the Dominican Republic two weeks ago when police raided a property belonging to him in Granada and the offices of the Spanish Football Federation in Madrid. This was part of a corruption and money laundering investigation that included the Spanish Super Cup among other deals. Seven people were detained by police, and Rubiales was identified as one of five additional individuals under investigation.
Resignation and Controversy
Rubiales stepped down as president of the federation in September after causing an international scandal for kissing Spain player Jenni Hermoso without her consent at the Women’s World Cup final. He is currently facing a trial for allegedly sexually assaulting Hermoso, though he has denied any wrongdoing in that case.
Business Deal Under Scrutiny
During his tenure as president of Spanish soccer, Rubiales overhauled the format of the Spanish Super Cup in 2020. This included creating a four-team mini tournament and moving the competition to Saudi Arabia as part of a deal worth reportedly 40 million euros per tournament for the federation. Prosecutors opened a probe into this deal in 2022 following leaked audio between Rubiales and then-Barcelona player Gerard Piqué regarding commissions.
Denial of Allegations
In a recorded interview preview with Spanish television channel La Sexta, Rubiales denied what he called false claims made by the Spanish media. He maintained that the money in his bank account is the result of his work and savings.
Continuing Investigation
The investigation into Rubiales and the corruption probe surrounding the Spanish Super Cup and other deals is ongoing. The allegations and legal proceedings have cast a shadow over his reputation and career in Spanish football.
In conclusion, the detention of Luis Rubiales in the corruption probe has sent shockwaves through the football community in Spain. The unfolding scandal has raised questions about the integrity of the sport and the individuals involved in its administration. As the investigation progresses, more details are expected to emerge, shedding light on the extent of corruption and malpractice in Spanish football..
Spanish police detain ex-soccer federation head Rubiales
Corruption probe Spain soccer federation Rubiales.