MADRID — Spanish prosecutors have announced they are seeking a prison term of over 15 years due to corruption allegations against Ángel María Villar, the former president of Spain’s soccer federation. On Thursday, it was revealed that prosecutors wish to bring Villar to trial for allegedly engaging in irregular transactions involving federation contracts during his tenure. In addition to Villar, charges are being sought for seven other individuals.
Villar held the position of federation president from 1988 until 2017. His dismissal came at the hands of Spain’s administrative court for sport following his suspension. Villar, along with his son and other officials, was detained under suspicions related to mismanagement, fund misappropriation, corruption, and document falsification.
Although Villar has consistently denied any wrongdoing, he consequently resigned from his prestigious roles as vice president of both FIFA and UEFA after his arrest. His successor at the Spanish federation was Luis Rubiales, who took over the role in 2018. Rubiales himself resigned in 2023 following controversy over an incident involving a non-consensual kiss with player Jenni Hermoso during the Women’s World Cup final awards ceremony, which ended with Spain’s victory.
Last month, the scandal involving Rubiales resulted in a guilty finding for sexual assault, marking one of the most significant crises ever faced by Spanish soccer. This incident continues to evoke discussions and repercussions within the national sports community.