Spanish FA sack two over alleged corruption as ex-president Rubiales is declared wanted by police

Former RFEF president Luis Rubiales | Imago

Spanish FA sack two over alleged corruption as ex-president Rubiales is declared wanted by police

Ayoola Kelechi 23:02 - 21.03.2024

The RFEF have been forced to look into allegations of corruption by the previous administration run by former president Luis Rubiales

The Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) finds itself embroiled in yet another scandal, as allegations of corruption rocked the organisation, resulting in the dismissal of two high-ranking executives.

Additionally, former RFEF president Luis Rubiales has been declared wanted by police, further escalating the crisis within the governing body of Spanish soccer.

Dismissal of executives linked to corruption probe

The RFEF announced on Thursday that it had terminated the employment of Pedro Gonzalez Segura, director of legal services, and Jose Javier Jimenez, director of human resources, citing their alleged involvement in a multimillion-euro corruption investigation. The federation emphasized the severity of the situation, stating that the scandal has inflicted "very serious damage" to the image of football in Spain.

The corruption probe has led to police action, including searches conducted at the RFEF headquarters and an apartment belonging to former president Luis Rubiales. Seven individuals were arrested as part of the investigation, which centers around allegations of corruption related to a deal involving the relocation of the Spanish Super Cup to Saudi Arabia.

Rubiales Declared Wanted by Police

Former RFEF president Luis Rubiales, who resigned following a separate scandal involving misconduct during the Women's World Cup final, is now wanted by police in connection with the corruption investigation. Rubiales, who is currently in the Dominican Republic, faces allegations of improper management regarding the agreement with Gerard Pique's Kosmos firm to relocate the tournament.

Despite being wanted by police, Luis Rubiales maintains his innocence and pledges full cooperation with the investigation. In an interview with El Espanol newspaper, Rubiales asserted his innocence, vowing to answer all questions regarding the allegations against him. His lawyers have informed the court of his intention to return from the Dominican Republic to address the accusations.

The unfolding scandal has cast a shadow over the Spanish Football Federation, underscoring the urgent need for transparency and accountability within the organization as it navigates through this tumultuous period.

Related content

Tags: