By Trend News Line 2024-04-03 11:27:09.
Former Spanish Soccer Federation President Detained in Corruption Probe
In a surprising turn of events, former Spanish soccer federation president Luis Rubiales was detained by Spanish police on his return to the country amid an ongoing corruption probe. The Civil Guard confirmed that Rubiales was questioned at Madrid’s airport after being detained on exiting the plane that brought him back home from the Dominican Republic. However, he was later released after a few hours. An investigative judge is expected to summon him for further questioning in the coming days.
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Investigation into Business Deal for Spanish Super Cup in Saudi Arabia
Rubiales was returning to Spain amidst a judicial probe into a business deal involving the Spanish Super Cup held in Saudi Arabia. The corruption and money laundering investigation is looking into contracts related to the Spanish Super Cup and the federation’s connections with Seville’s La Cartuja Stadium. This stadium hosts the Copa del Rey final and various international games, among other deals.
Previous Controversies and Scandals
Rubiales has faced controversies in the past, including stepping down as president of the federation in September. He caused an international scandal for kissing Spain player Jenni Hermoso without her consent at the Women’s World Cup final. Additionally, he is facing trial for allegedly sexually assaulting Hermoso, a charge he has vehemently denied.
Leaked Audio and Probes
Prosecutors opened a probe into the 2020 deal regarding the Spanish Super Cup following leaked audio between Rubiales and then-Barcelona player Gerard Piqué. The leaked audio revealed discussions about millions of dollars in commissions related to the deal. Piqué’s sports entertainment company Kosmos was involved in the deal with the federation and Saudi Arabia. However, no employees of Kosmos have been detained or placed under investigation, and no property of the company has been raided.
Rubiales Denies Allegations
In a preview of a recorded interview with a Spanish television channel, Rubiales denied the false claims made by Spanish media. He stated, “I don’t know what the judge has said or what Civil Guard has investigated. The money in my bank account is the result of my work and my savings.”
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Impact on Spanish Soccer
During his tenure as president of Spanish soccer, Rubiales made significant changes to the format of the Spanish Super Cup in 2020. He introduced a four-team mini tournament and moved the competition to Saudi Arabia as part of a lucrative deal. The deal was reportedly worth 40 million euros per tournament for the federation.
Overall, the detention of Luis Rubiales has sent shockwaves through the Spanish soccer community, raising questions about the integrity of the federation and its dealings. As the investigation unfolds, more details are expected to emerge, shedding light on the extent of corruption within the organization..
1. Spanish police detain ex-soccer federation head Rubiales
2. Rubiales return to country amid corruption probe.
