FC Barcelona legend Gerard Pique has been tipped to come out of a corruption and money laundering probe as bad as or even ‘worse than’ the disgraced ex-Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) chief, Luis Rubiales. Rubiales recently returned to Spain after his property and the RFEF’s offices were raided in connection with the probe. Eleven premises were searched, seven arrests were made, and Rubiales is one of five individuals under investigation.
The investigation is focused on contracts related to the Spanish Super Cup being held in Saudi Arabia, with concerns regarding illegal commissions and money laundering. Promoter Miguel Angel Galan believes Pique could also come under investigation due to his company Kosmos’ involvement in taking the competition to the Middle East. Galan stated that Pique could potentially be investigated and come out of it as bad as or even worse than Rubiales.
According to Galan, there is a report indicating that Kosmos acted as an intermediary for the Spanish National Football Team, raising concerns about illegal commissions amounting to €24 million. The relationship between the RFEF, Pique, and Saudi Arabia has been called into question, with allegations of corruption in the business dealings related to the competition. Galan insists that there were other offers from countries like Qatar without the involvement of commission agents.
Despite retiring from professional football in 2022, Pique has been focusing on his successful venture, the King’s League. However, his involvement in the corruption and money laundering probe has brought him back into the spotlight. Pique recently attended Barcelona’s match against Las Palmas, showing his continued connection to the club despite his retirement. The allegations and investigations could tarnish Pique’s reputation and legacy as a Barcelona legend.
The investigation into the corruption and money laundering probe involving Rubiales and potentially Pique has raised concerns about the integrity of football governance. The allegations of illegal commissions and business dealings raise questions about the transparency and accountability of football’s top officials. As the investigation unfolds, the implications for both Rubiales and Pique could have far-reaching consequences for both individuals and the football community at large.
The ongoing probe underscores the need for greater transparency and accountability in football governance to prevent corruption and financial misconduct. The involvement of high-profile figures like Rubiales and Pique in the investigation highlights the potential pitfalls of unchecked power and influence in the sports world. As the investigation progresses, the football community will be closely watching the outcomes and repercussions for those involved in the alleged corruption and money laundering activities.
