Piqué Tearfully Defends His Innocence in Court

Former Barcelona star Gerard Piqué appeared in court today as a subject of investigation in the Spanish Super Cup case. The probe centers on payments made to relocate the Spanish Super Cup to Saudi Arabia during Luis Rubiales’ tenure as president of the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF).

During his testimony at the Court of Instruction No. 4 in Majadahonda, Piqué emotionally defended his innocence. He insisted that he acted solely as an agent for Saudi Arabia, not for the Spanish Federation, eliminating any conflict of interest. Piqué claimed the commissions he received from the Saudi government were part of a legal negotiation for the Super Cup relocation deal. He firmly denied receiving any commissions from the RFEF.

Visibly upset, Piqué broke down in tears while stating that this investigation has caused irreparable damage to his reputation. He argued that in any other country, he would have been honored for bringing substantial funds to the Spanish Football Federation. Instead, in Spain, he finds himself facing legal proceedings.

Piqué has been under investigation since May due to a clause between the RFEF and Saudi Arabia that granted him a “success fee” of 4 million euros annually. The judge emphasized that Piqué was still a Barcelona player at the time, participating in the competition. Despite Piqué’s claims of non-involvement, the Civil Guard confirmed in December that he acted as an “intermediary” and “active party” in the agreement.

The case continues to unfold as the court examines the evidence and testimonies presented. The outcome of this high-profile investigation remains to be seen, with potential implications for both Piqué and the broader landscape of Spanish football administration.