The controversial former president of the Spanish football federation, Luis Rubiales has been arrested upon his return to Madrid from the Dominican Republic.
What happened?
Rubiales had a warrant for his arrest issued in late March after his property was raided by authorities.
However, at the time, he was in the Dominican Republic and could not be apprehended.
After stepping off the plane on Tuesday, March 2nd, he was taken into a black van with several members of the Civil Guard, according to reports.
He was taken into custody by members of the Civil Guard as part of a corruption investigation and he’s being investigated by a court in Majadahonda.
Video has surfaced on Spanish television showing the 46-year-old being taken into a black Civil Guard vehicle on the tarmac at the airport in Spain’s capital.
A crowd of journalists had assembled at the airport’s arrivals area waiting for Rubiales, but the football administrator was arrested by authorities before reaching the journalists, avoiding walking through the arrivals lounge.
Why was Luis Rubiales arrested?
On Monday, April 1st, the Central Operative Unit (UCO) of the Civil Guard had previously searched the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) and Rubiales’ home in Granada while he was away.
According to reports in the Spanish press, he is facing allegations of business corruption, unfair administration, money laundering, and involvement in a criminal organization.
Local Spanish media reported that a mobile phone and tablet were seized during the search.
The Special Prosecutor’s Office against Corruption and EUROPOL is investigating alleged illegal contracts related to the transfer of the Super Cup to Saudi Arabia, signed by the former federation president and ex-footballer Gerard Piqué.
Additionally, they are looking into whether Rubiales granted works from the RFEF to construction company Gruconsa in exchange for payments to a company managed by his friend ‘Nene’.
Recall that Rubiales has faced previous legal issues, including allegations of sexual assault and coercion involving Spanish football star Jenni Hermoso.
Despite resigning from his position due to the allegation, Mr. Rubiales insists that he has not committed any illegal acts.
Prosecutors are pushing for a two-and-a-half-year prison sentence for Mr. Rubiales, though he maintains his innocence.
His attorney clarified that he is scheduled to testify in a few days and there are no legal actions planned for this Wednesday, April 3.
According to reports, Mr. Rubiales now has 72 hours to be interrogated.
Originally scheduled to return on April 6th, Mr. Rubiales chose to come back early and arrived at Madrid-Barajas airport on Tuesday morning, April 2nd.
What’s next for Luis Rubiales?
After his detention, the 46-year-old is expected to face trial for corruption charges, however, the timeline for the proceedings is uncertain. Additionally, the schedule for the trial on sexual assault allegations remains unclear.
