Former President of the Spanish Football Federation, Luis Rubiales, is expected to arrive in Spain today, Wednesday, after advancing his return date. He is anticipated to land at Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport within hours, where he is expected to be arrested upon arrival in connection with a case involving illegal contracts within the Federation, according to sources close to the case.
Rubiales, who is under investigation for alleged corruption crimes at the Majadahonda court (Madrid), was originally scheduled to return to the country next Saturday, although he ultimately decided to advance his return to Spain. The same sources indicated that Rubiales could be arrested on Wednesday at Madrid Airport.
Defense sources added that Rubiales‘ return is not due to a judge’s summons but rather his desire to return as soon as possible. They pointed out that he has no court summons, so they hope there is no arrest warrant issued against him. Rubiales traveled to the Dominican Republic, which does not have extradition agreements with Spain regarding judicially wanted individuals, noting that he faces imprisonment in a “sexual assault” case, while investigations into “corruption allegations” are still ongoing. The judiciary is investigating possible illegal contracts over the past five years at the Spanish Football Federation, coinciding with the period Rubiales headed the Federation.
In addition to the allegations surrounding illegal contracts within the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), Luis Rubiales has been embroiled in a significant scandal following his actions at the Women’s World Cup. Rubiales faced global criticism for kissing Spanish player Jenni Hermoso on the lips during the victory ceremony, an act that Hermoso has testified was not consensual. This incident led to FIFA suspending Rubiales and sparked calls from regional federation leaders for his immediate resignation due to the severe damage to the image of Spanish football. The scandal has prompted a broad outcry, including protests in Madrid showing support for Hermoso and demands for systemic changes within the RFEF.
