Luis Rubiales, the former president of Spain’s soccer federation, was arrested by Spanish police as part of a corruption probe shortly after returning from the Dominican Republic. The investigation is focused on contracts related to the Spanish Super Cup and other business deals during Rubiales’ time as president. Rubiales had already faced controversy for kissing Spain player Jenni Hermoso without her consent, resulting in his resignation as federation president and facing trial for alleged sexual assault.
Rubiales’ tenure as president saw significant changes to Spanish soccer, including the overhaul of the Spanish Super Cup format and moving the competition to Saudi Arabia in a lucrative deal. However, his dealings with the federation and other entities have come under scrutiny, leading to investigations and legal troubles. Rubiales denies any wrongdoing in these cases and maintains that the money in his bank account is the result of his work and savings.
The leaked audio conversations between Rubiales and former Barcelona player Gerard Piqué led to prosecutors opening a probe into the deal involving the Spanish Super Cup and Saudi Arabia. Piqué’s company, Kosmos, was reportedly involved in the deal, but no employees of Kosmos have been detained or investigated. Rubiales denies the allegations made by the Spanish media and asserts that his financial transactions are legitimate and the result of his own work.
Despite the scandal surrounding Rubiales, Spain’s Justice Minister Félix Bolaños expressed confidence in the country’s democratic and judicial institutions, emphasizing that they work to ensure the smooth hosting of international events like the World Cup. The Spanish federation plays a crucial role in organizing Spain’s national teams, leagues, and tournaments, as well as overseeing referees. Rubiales’ decision to take the Super Cup to Saudi Arabia faced criticism from women’s and human rights groups.
Following Rubiales’ arrest, his successor as interim federation president, Pedro Rocha, announced elections to choose new leadership on May 6. The federation expressed its intention to collaborate with the judicial investigation to move past the turbulent period that has tarnished the image of Spanish soccer. Rubiales’ downfall, from a powerful and influential figure to facing legal troubles and public scrutiny, reflects the challenges and controversies that have plagued the world of sports governance. The federation’s efforts to address and rectify the situation indicate a commitment to restoring integrity and credibility to Spanish soccer.
