Spanish police conducted searches at the headquarters of the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) in Madrid on Wednesday as part of a corruption investigation, according to the prosecutor's office. The operation is part of a broader probe into alleged corruption in business, mismanagement of assets, and money laundering involving unspecified entities.
A total of 11 searches were being carried out at various locations across Spain, with the expectation of seven arrests, the prosecutor stated. As the Civil Guard and undercover agents searched the RFEF offices, the Spain national team was practicing on the adjacent pitch in preparation for their upcoming matches against Colombia and Brazil.
RFEF staff were prevented from entering the building during the search, while media personnel present to cover the team's practice were closely monitored. The investigation also extended to the residence of former RFEF president Luis Rubiales in Andalucia, with images showing officers leaving the premises with items labeled with Rubiales' name.
Rubiales had resigned from his position last year following a controversial incident involving an unsolicited kiss during celebrations after Spain's Women's World Cup victory. He, along with other individuals, has provided testimony to the investigating judge, who has recommended that the case proceed to trial.
Rubiales' tenure as president was marked by various controversies, including the abrupt dismissal of Spain's manager before the 2018 World Cup opener and allegations of impropriety related to a significant deal to move the Spanish Super Cup to Saudi Arabia, which remains under investigation.
At the time of the searches, Rubiales had not responded to requests for comment from Reuters.
