Carlo Ancelotti, the head coach of Real Madrid, is set to go on trial this Wednesday in Madrid for allegedly failing to pay taxes on his earnings. The 65-year-old Italian is accused of not declaring income related to his image rights during 2014 and 2015. Prosecutors are seeking a prison sentence of four years and nine months for Ancelotti, claiming he cost Spain’s treasury over one million euros ($1.1 million).
Details of the Allegations
The prosecution says that Ancelotti only declared the salary he received from Real Madrid during these two years, but failed to report other income sources. They claim he set up a complex system of shell companies to hide extra earnings, including those from image rights and real estate. Ancelotti was a tax resident in Spain and declared his home in Madrid.
Ancelotti’s Response to the Charges
Ancelotti has denied any wrongdoing. He acknowledged that his actions might have deprived the Spanish government of money but says it is an old issue. The coach expressed confidence in the legal system, saying he hopes the case will be resolved soon. He added that although it bothers him to be accused of fraud, he plans to testify in court and prove his innocence.
Possible Outcome of the Trial
A judge involved in the case said Ancelotti has “acknowledged” his actions, which could lead to a possible agreement with prosecutors. If such a deal is reached, it might allow him to avoid prison. The trial is expected to last two days.
Spain’s Crackdown on Tax Evasion
In recent years, Spain has cracked down on tax evasion, especially among high-profile sports figures. Ancelotti is not the first person in the football world to face legal issues. Former Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho received a suspended prison sentence in 2019 for tax fraud. Other football stars like Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo also faced legal consequences for tax evasion, but they avoided jail time due to being first-time offenders.
Other Celebrity Cases
In 2023, Colombian singer Shakira settled a tax fraud case by agreeing to a three-year suspended sentence and paying a fine of 7.3 million euros. She was accused of not paying taxes on 14.5 million euros of income earned between 2012 and 2014.
Ancelotti’s Career Achievements
Ancelotti is widely regarded as one of the best coaches in football history. He has won a record five Champions League titles, including three with Real Madrid. He also enjoyed success at other top clubs, such as Bayern Munich, Chelsea, Milan, and Paris Saint-Germain. Despite the legal troubles, his reputation as a coach remains strong.
