Former Spanish Football Federation president Luis Rubiales has vehemently denied any business interests in Saudi Arabia, despite being under investigation for alleged corruption related to moving the Spanish Supercopa to the country. Rubiales refuted claims of owning land for hotel construction and receiving illegal commissions during his time at the helm of the Spanish FA. The corruption probe is now looking into contracts for the renovation of Seville’s La Cartuja stadium, where the Copa del Rey final will take place.
Gerard Piqué’s sports entertainment company, Kosmos, played a role in the deal between the federation and Saudi Arabia. Rubiales stated that it was Kosmos that brought the offer from Saudi Arabia, and that they chose the best offer available. Despite leaked audio conversations between Rubiales and Piqué regarding commissions, Rubiales has denied any bribes or wrongdoing in relation to the deal.
Aside from the corruption investigation, Rubiales is also facing legal troubles for a separate incident where prosecutors are seeking a 2-1/2-year jail term. This stems from an unsolicited kiss on the lips that Rubiales gave player Jenni Hermoso following Spain’s victory at the Women’s World Cup final. Rubiales, who resigned in September amidst the scandal, has maintained his innocence in this case as well.
Spanish police recently raided Rubiales’ property in Granada and the offices of the RFEF in Madrid, leading to the arrest of seven individuals. Rubiales was identified as one of five additional persons under investigation in connection to the corruption probe. Despite being detained and questioned by police upon his return to Spain, Rubiales has continued to deny any wrongdoing and maintains that his financial accounts are the result of his work and savings.
The legal troubles surrounding Luis Rubiales have cast a shadow over his tenure as president of the Spanish Football Federation. The corruption allegations, involvement of Gerard Piqué’s company Kosmos, and the separate legal case all raise questions about the integrity of the football governing body in Spain. As the investigations continue, it remains to be seen how this controversy will impact the future of both Rubiales and the RFEF.