Gerard Pique is facing judicial inquiry over a deal that allowed the Spanish Super Cup to be hosted in Saudi Arabia, amidst allegations of corruption and money laundering related to a 2019 agreement with Luis Rubiales, the former federation president. Pique’s company, Kosmos, is implicated in receiving substantial commissions. The investigation remains active as the judge decides on future proceedings.
Gerard Pique, the former Barcelona defender, is currently under judicial scrutiny regarding a business deal that enabled the hosting of the Spanish Super Cup in Saudi Arabia. This inquiry focuses on alleged corruption and money laundering linked to an agreement made by Luis Rubiales, the former president of the Spanish Football Federation, in 2019.
A Madrid court has revealed that contracts were signed between the federation and Saudi Arabia in both 2019 and 2020, establishing a decade-long agreement for the Super Cup, which will cost 40 million euros annually. Additionally, Pique’s sports entertainment company, Kosmos, was to receive a commission of 4 million euros each year while Pique was still an active player.
Pique, who has retired from professional football and is known for his former relationship with pop star Shakira, has maintained his innocence. The investigation commenced in 2022 after audio leaks surfaced, implying discussions between Rubiales and Pique regarding substantial commission payments.
Rubiales denied any wrongdoing when questioned by the judge in April 2024, and Pique was subsequently placed under investigation in May. The case remains ongoing, with the judge evaluating whether to dismiss the charges or proceed to trial. Notably, Rubiales was recently convicted of sexual assault for kissing player Jennifer Hermoso without consent following the 2023 Women’s World Cup final.
The investigation involving Gerard Pique underscores serious allegations of corruption tied to the Spanish Super Cup’s hosting in Saudi Arabia. With multiple legal proceedings in progress, the future implications for both Pique and Rubiales continue to unfold amidst ongoing scrutiny and public interest concerning the sports industry. Additionally, the circumstances surrounding the agreement highlight a concerning interplay between sport and business practices, warranting further examination to ensure ethical governance in sports administrations.
Original Source: www.news18.com
