April 04, (THEWILL) – Carlo Ancelotti, the esteemed coach of Real Madrid, concluded his tax fraud trial in Spain on Thursday. Public prosecutors are seeking a jail term of four years and nine months for the Italian manager. Ancelotti is accused of concealing income from the tax office, amounting to over €1 million, during his first tenure at Real Madrid in 2014 and 2015.
Prosecutors allege that Ancelotti established a complex network of shell companies to hide additional earnings from image rights and other sources, such as real estate. They assert that he only declared his salary, omitting these extra revenues. The lead prosecutor maintained that the acts of fraud and concealment were proven, reiterating the demand for a jail sentence.
Ancelotti, aged 65, denied the allegations when he testified on Wednesday. He stated that, on the advice of the club, a firm was created to manage 15 percent of his annual salary in image rights. He claimed he was unaware that this arrangement allowed him to pay less tax. Ancelotti’s lawyer argued that his client did not fully understand the documents he signed and requested an acquittal.
The case could have been resolved without a trial, but Spanish tax authorities pursued legal action. Previous cases involving high-profile football figures, such as Jose Mourinho, Lionel Messi, and Cristiano Ronaldo, have resulted in suspended sentences or out-of-court settlements. Spain has intensified its efforts to ensure football stars comply with their tax obligations.
Ancelotti’s illustrious career includes winning five UEFA Champions League trophies, three of which were with Real Madrid. He has also won domestic league titles with several top European clubs. After his first stint at Real Madrid, he managed Bayern Munich, Napoli, and Everton before returning to the Spanish club in 2021.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
