Former head of the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), Luis Rubiales, was apprehended by authorities on Wednesday upon his return to Spain, part of an investigation into alleged corruption linked to the relocation of the Spanish Supercopa to Saudi Arabia.
Rubiales, who had been in the Dominican Republic since March 21, witnessed raids on his apartment in Granada and the RFEF’s headquarters in Madrid while away. Despite planning to return on April 6, he voluntarily flew back to Spain, where law enforcement awaited him at Madrid-Barajas airport.
Shortly after landing, Rubiales was taken into custody by the Central Operational Unit department (UCO) for questioning. It’s important to note that his arrest wasn’t directly ordered by the presiding judge overseeing the case.
Rubiales has staunchly refuted any allegations of misconduct regarding the Supercopa relocation, asserting in an upcoming interview with La Sexta that his wealth stems from legitimate sources—his work and savings.
The controversy surrounds the 2019 agreement, brokered by Rubiales and Gerard Piqué’s company Kosmos, to move the Supercopa to Saudi Arabia for a lucrative sum of €120 million. This decision, expanding the tournament’s format and relocating it outside Spain, drew criticism from traditionalists.
Amid investigations into possible improper conduct, which intensified following leaked audio conversations between Rubiales and Piqué, several raids were conducted in March, resulting in six arrests. While Rubiales faces legal scrutiny on multiple fronts, including allegations of sexual assault, the case continues to unfold.
