Former Spanish Football Federation president Luis Rubiales has denied allegations that his decision to move the Spanish Supercopa to Saudi Arabia was influenced by personal business interests. Rubiales, who recently returned to Spain from the Dominican Republic, was questioned by police in Madrid as part of a corruption investigation into the deal struck with the Saudi sports authority in 2019.
Rubiales refuted claims of having business investments in Saudi Arabia, stating that reports suggesting otherwise are false. He also dismissed accusations of receiving illegal commissions during his tenure at the Spanish FA, asserting that his financial assets are the result of his own work and savings.
The corruption probe extends to contracts related to the renovation of Seville's La Cartuja stadium, where the upcoming Copa del Rey final will be held. Rubiales emphasized that he has not engaged in any illicit activities and has not accepted bribes from individuals, including former Barcelona star Gerard Piqué.
The deal with Saudi Arabia was facilitated by Piqué's sports entertainment company, Kosmos, with Rubiales clarifying that the decision was based on selecting the most favorable offer. He denied any wrongdoing in his dealings with Piqué and emphasized that the Qatar option was never presented as a viable alternative.
Authorities initiated an investigation into the 2019 agreement following leaked audio conversations between Rubiales and Piqué regarding potential commissions. Recent police raids on Rubiales' property in Granada and the RFEF offices in Madrid have led to multiple arrests, with Rubiales identified as one of the individuals under scrutiny.
In a separate legal matter, Rubiales is facing a 2-1/2-year jail term request for an unsolicited kiss he gave to player Jenni Hermoso after Spain's victory in the Women's World Cup final. Rubiales, who resigned in September amid the controversy, has consistently denied any misconduct in the various allegations brought against him.
