Real Madrid Coach Carlo Ancelotti To Face Trial For Alleged Tax Fraud.
Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti is set to stand trial next week over allegations of tax fraud, with Spanish prosecutors accusing him of failing to declare more than €1 million in earnings from image rights in 2014 and 2015.
Legal Proceedings Set to Begin
A Madrid court confirmed that Ancelotti’s trial will commence on 2 April 2025 and is expected to last two days. The 65-year-old Italian must be present for the hearings, where prosecutors are seeking a prison sentence of four years and nine months.
The case revolves around claims that Ancelotti only declared his salary from Real Madrid while allegedly using a complex system of shell companies to conceal additional income from image rights and other sources. Prosecutors argue that, despite registering as a tax resident in Spain and stating that his home was in Madrid, he did not fully disclose his earnings.
Ancelotti’s Response
Speaking at a pre-match press conference, Ancelotti remained calm about the trial.
“I have confidence in the legal and justice system, so I am not worried,” he stated. “Of course, it upsets me a little that they believe I have committed fraud, but I will go and testify hoping to convince them otherwise.”
Ancelotti had previously dismissed the allegations as an “old story” and expressed hope for a swift resolution.
Spain’s Crackdown on Tax Fraud
The case against Ancelotti is the latest in Spain’s ongoing efforts to tackle tax evasion among high-profile figures. Football stars Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo were both convicted of tax fraud, receiving prison sentences that were later waived. Former Real Madrid coach José Mourinho also received a one-year suspended sentence in 2019.
Beyond football, global music icon Shakira settled a tax fraud case in 2023 by agreeing to a three-year suspended sentence and paying €7.3 million in fines.
Ancelotti’s Legacy and Career
Ancelotti, one of football’s most decorated managers, has won five Champions League titles, including three with Real Madrid. His managerial career has spanned elite clubs across Europe, with domestic league triumphs in Spain, Italy, England, Germany, and France.
He initially managed Real Madrid from 2013 to 2015 before moving on to Bayern Munich, Napoli, and Everton. He returned to the Spanish giants in 2021, continuing to build on his illustrious career.
Despite his legal troubles, Ancelotti remains focused on Real Madrid’s season as he prepares for both his upcoming trial and the crucial matches ahead.
