MADRID — On Friday, Gerard Piqué, a former defender for Barcelona, found himself before a judge as part of an ongoing investigation into the business transactions that brought the Spanish Super Cup to Saudi Arabia. The inquiry aims to unravel suspicions of potential corruption and money laundering linked to decisions made by Luis Rubiales, the former president of the Spanish football federation, back in 2019.
Piqué and his lawyer chose to remain silent when faced with questions from journalists who had gathered outside the courthouse to cover the high-profile event.
According to information from the Madrid-based court, contracts were signed in 2019 and 2020 between the football federation and Saudi Arabia. This was to cement a decade-long agreement to host the mini soccer tournament in Saudi Arabia, reportedly earning 40 million euros ($43 million) annually. Additionally, Piqué’s sports entertainment company, Kosmos, was to receive a 4 million euro annual commission while he was actively playing for Barcelona and taking part in the Super Cup.
Since then, Piqué, known for his previous marriage to pop singer Shakira, has hung up his boots and retired from professional soccer. Throughout this process, he has consistently denied any involvement in any illicit activities.
The investigation initially began in 2022 following the emergence of leaked audio recordings between Rubiales and Piqué that suggested negotiations over significant commissions. When Rubiales was questioned by the judge in April 2024, he also denied any foul play. Piqué became under investigation shortly thereafter in May.
As it stands, the investigation remains in its initial stages. The judge holds the authority to either bring the investigation to a close or move it toward a formal trial.
This case comes on the heels of Rubiales’ recent conviction last month for a separate matter involving sexual assault, following an incident where he kissed Spain’s player Jennifer Hermoso without consent after the 2023 Women’s World Cup final.
