Luis Rubiales, once hailed as a prominent figure in Spanish football, now finds himself at the centre of a corruption scandal.
The former president of the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) has been arrested as part of a sweeping investigation into alleged illicit activities.
The saga unfolded dramatically as Rubiales was detained upon his arrival in Madrid from the Dominican Republic.
The arrest comes amidst suspicions of his involvement in receiving illegal commissions during negotiations for staging the Spanish Super Cup competition in Saudi Arabia, a deal that promised significant financial gains.
Prosecutors have not minced words, seeking a substantial two-and-a-half-year jail term for Rubiales, who vehemently denies any wrongdoing.
The gravity of the situation was underscored by the police’s search of Rubiales’ residence last month, coinciding with his absence in the Dominican Republic.
Simultaneously, raids were conducted at the football federation headquarters, leading to multiple arrests.
Such coordinated actions suggest the depth and breadth of the investigation into what appears to be a far-reaching corruption network.
However, Rubiales’ legal troubles do not end there. In a separate but equally troubling development, he is slated to stand trial for allegations of sexual assault.
The charge stems from an incident where he kissed player Jenni Hermoso on the mouth following last summer’s World Cup final.
Things got that bad afterwards, even Luis Rubiales’ mother went on a hunger strike!
The controversy surrounding this incident has only added to the tarnishing of Rubiales’ reputation, painting a picture of a man embroiled in multiple controversies.
The downfall of Luis Rubiales marks a significant blow to the integrity of Spanish football.
