In a dramatic legal twist, a Spanish court has overturned the rape conviction of former Barcelona and Brazil footballer, Dani Alves, following an appeal.
Alves was found guilty in February 2024 of raping a woman in a Barcelona nightclub in December 2022. As a result, he was sentenced to four-and-a-half years in prison but was later released on bail in March 2024 while awaiting the outcome of his appeal.
Throughout the trial, Alves maintained his innocence, insisting that the encounter was consensual.
The top court in Catalonia ruled in his favor, citing “inconsistencies and contradictions” in the initial verdict. This led to the overturning of his conviction, significantly altering the course of the case.
To secure his release, Alves was required to post a €1 million (£850,000) bail. As part of his bail conditions:
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He surrendered his passports to prevent him from leaving Spain.
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He must report to the court every Friday.
At the peak of his career, Alves was one of the highest-paid defenders, reportedly earning €155,000 per week. He remains one of football’s most decorated players, boasting 43 career titles, just behind Lionel Messi’s 46 trophies.
This latest ruling marks a major turning point in Alves’ legal battle, with reactions pouring in from both supporters and critics of the decision.
