Gerard Piqué Questioned in Saudi Arabia Super Cup Probe

MADRID (AP) — Former Barcelona defender Gerard Piqué faced a judge on Friday as part of an ongoing judicial investigation into the business deal that brought the Spanish Super Cup to Saudi Arabia. The inquiry is focused on allegations of corruption and money laundering linked to a 10-year agreement signed in 2019 between the Spanish Football Federation and Saudi Arabia.

The Madrid-based court revealed that contracts were established in 2019 and 2020, securing a payment of €40 million ($43 million) annually for the tournament. An additional €4 million per year was to be directed to Piqué’s sports entertainment company, Kosmos, while he was actively playing for Barcelona and involved in the Super Cup.

Following his retirement from professional football, Piqué has denied any wrongdoing related to the deal. The investigation began in 2022 after leaked audio surfaced, suggesting conversations between Rubiales and Piqué about substantial commission fees associated with the agreement.

Luis Rubiales, former president of the Spanish Football Federation, faced questioning before the judge in April 2024. Shortly thereafter, Piqué was also placed under investigation. The case remains in the investigative stage, with the judge possessing the option to either dismiss the case or advance it to trial.

Adding to the controversy surrounding the federation, Rubiales was convicted last month of sexual assault after kissing Spain player Jennifer Hermoso without her consent at the conclusion of the 2023 Women’s World Cup.