Spain Commences Rape Trial Involving Footballer Dani Alves
Spain Commences Rape Trial Involving Footballer Dani Alves
Former Barcelona and Brazil football star Dani Alves is currently facing trial in Spain over allegations of rape in a nightclub.
The 40-year-old has been held in custody without bail for over a year since the incident allegedly occurred in December 2022.
If convicted, Mr. Alves could potentially face a prison sentence of up to 12 years.
Initially denying any encounter with the accuser, Alves later admitted to consensual relations. The trial is set to conclude on Wednesday.
Over 30 individuals, including Alves and his estranged wife, are expected to provide testimony.
Despite Alves’ plea to postpone the trial for adequate preparation time, citing undue media influence, the Barcelona court rejected the request.
During the trial’s commencement, the accuser testified behind a screen to safeguard her identity. She alleges that Alves coerced her into a restroom in the VIP section of a Barcelona nightclub and forced sexual intercourse upon her.
Testimony from the accuser’s cousin and a friend, who were present on the night of the alleged assault, supported her claims. They recounted instances of Alves making unwanted advances earlier in the evening. The accuser initially hesitated to file a complaint, fearing disbelief.
In Spain, rape allegations are investigated under the umbrella of sexual assault, with potential sentences ranging from four to 15 years.
The prosecution seeks a nine-year prison term for Alves and €150,000 (£128,000) in damages for the victim.
Alves’ mother, Lucia Alves, may face legal repercussions for disclosing the accuser’s identity on social media, contravening a court ruling for her protection.
Formally charged in August, Alves was deemed by the court to have sufficient evidence against him to proceed to trial.
Despite repeated bail requests, Alves remains detained, considered a flight risk by the courts.
Alves boasts an illustrious football career, having played for prestigious clubs like Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain. He amassed over 400 appearances for Barcelona, clinching six league titles and three Champions League trophies across two stints. Alves was also part of Brazil’s 2022 World Cup squad.
Following the allegations, his contract with Mexican club Pumas UNAM was terminated in January 2023.
