After winning the European Championship, the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) is facing another scandal. According to reports in the Spanish media, association president Pedro Rocha has been suspended for two years
Two days ago, there was great joy on the Iberian peninsula as Spain had just beaten England 2:1 to become European champions for the fourth time. But now a decision by the national administrative court (TAD) for sports matters is casting a dark shadow over the celebrations. According to reports in the Spanish media, association president Pedro Rocha has been suspended from all functions in Spanish sport for two years.
The judge’s decision represents a serious setback for the scandal-plagued association in its quest for normality. Many will remember the scandal surrounding Luis Rubiales, who had to resign due to the kissing scandal at the Women’s World Cup last year.
Rocha, on the other hand, has been the appointed successor to Luis Rubiales at the head of the RFEF since the end of April. Now, however, Rocha has been dismissed by the TAD for exceeding his authority. The judges considered it proven that the head of the federation had abused his power in the sacking of general secretary Andreu Camps.
Rocha wants to lodge an appeal
According to the trade magazine Iusport, Rocha intends to appeal against the verdict to the National Sports Council (CSD). He would then also like to remain in office until a decision is reached in the appeal proceedings. The fact that his suspension has been suspended is of great importance to the 69-year-old, as he would otherwise not be able to stand for election by the RFEF delegates at the next Federation Congress.
However, Roche is not only facing trouble because of his alleged abuse of office. Investigations are also underway into suspected corruption – against him, Rubiales and the Spanish association. The investigators are focusing on contracts for the staging of the Spanish Super Cup in Saudi Arabia in recent years. They want to find out whether any bribes were paid. In this context, the authorities also have former world and European champion Gerard Pique and his marketing company Kosmos in their sights.
