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Spanish Football Federation To Address FIFA Concerns Amidst Scandals
The Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), acting head Pedro Rocha is set to travel to FIFA headquarters in Zurich, Switzerland, to address concerns raised by the world governing body.
The RFEF has been embroiled in controversy following a series of scandals, including allegations of corruption, money laundering, & misuse of federation funds.
According to reports, FIFA sent a letter to the RFEF seeking explanations on how the federation is addressing the recent scandals. The letter included five questions related to the investigation into alleged corruption & other potential crimes. The RFEF has been under scrutiny following a raid on its headquarters, which took place just hours before Rocha & his committee were due to announce a date for the presidential election.
The Spanish Superior Sports Council (CSD) has also expressed concerns over the state of the federation and has offered to assist FIFA if intervention is regarded as necessary ahead of the 2030 World Cup, which Spain is set to co-host with Portugal & Morocco. However, FIFA sources have denied any plans for intervention at this time.
The recent investigations have led to searches at the RFEF headquarters and the home of former president Luis Rubiales, who resigned in September amid allegations of corruption and misconduct. Rubiales is facing potential criminal charges, including alleged sexual assault & harassment, along with other former officials of the federation.
In response to the allegations, the RFEF has announced a “forensic audit” of the organization & has emphasized its commitment to ensuring the stability of the institution. The federation has distanced itself from the actions of its former president & other individuals implicated in the ongoing investigations.
Despite the challenges facing the RFEF, Rocha has been tasked with leading the organization through this difficult period. However, his leadership has come under scrutiny, with legal challenges questioning his handling of the presidential succession & his actions as acting president.
The investigation into the awarding of the Supercopa to Saudi Arabia, which triggered the legal complaints & investigations, emphasizes the deep-rooted issues within the RFEF and the broader football community in Spain.
