Spanish police raid soccer federation
Corruption probe
Spanish police raid soccer federation on Wednesday. They searched the headquarters of the Spanish Soccer Federation (RFEF) in Madrid. The prosecutor’s office has confirmed that this operation is part of a larger investigation into various entities that are suspected of corruption. They involve the improper management of assets, money laundering, and other business-related offenses. The prosecutor’s office anticipates that seven people will be arrested in connection with the probe. A total of 11 search operations are being carried out across Spain.
While the Spanish national soccer team was practicing for their upcoming friendly matches against Colombia and Brazil, the offices of the soccer federation were being searched by the Civil Guard and undercover agents. The RFEF staff were not allowed to enter the building and the media, who were there to cover the practice and interview players, were closely monitored by the police. The searches began at 9:30 a.m. and continued throughout the lunchtime.
Alfonso Beato on Twitter: “The Police search the headquarters of the Spanish soccer federation and make arrests! https://t.co/CAIP59HQVc / Twitter”
The Police search the headquarters of the Spanish soccer federation and make arrests! https://t.co/CAIP59HQVc
Riddled with issues
According to a source at the RFEF, the home of former president Luis Rubiales in Andalucia was searched by the Civil Guard. Several officers were seen leaving the apartment located in the Granada city center. They were carrying a cardboard box labeled “Luis Rubiales” and a few other bags. Rubiales resigned from his position last year after he kissed player Jenni Hermoso on the mouth without her consent during celebrations following Spain’s Women’s World Cup victory.
Accordingly, both Hermoso and Rubiales, along with their colleagues, have given their testimonies to the investigating judge. The judge has recommended that the case proceed to trial. Rubiales’ term was marked by several controversies. They included a sudden decision to dismiss Spain manager Julen Lopetegui. The firing was just two days before their opening match of the 2018 World Cup. Additionally, he faced allegations of wrongdoing over a multimillion-euro deal to move the Spanish Super Cup to Saudi Arabia. These allegations remain under investigation.