Spain’s sports court, TAD, has recommended a six-year ban for RFEF president Pedro Rocha, continuing the troubled legacy left behind by his predecessor Luis Rubiales. The TAD ruling is subject to appeal for 10 days, after which a vote will determine Rocha’s fate, coinciding with Spain’s participation in the European Championship. Rocha was handpicked by Rubiales before his FIFA ban last August, following misconduct at the women’s World Cup. Despite allegations of corruption during his time as Rubiales’ vice-president, Rocha took over the presidency without opposition in April.
Under Rocha’s leadership, several key decisions were made, resulting in his investigation by the TAD. The court has found him in violation of his legal powers in three separate instances, proposing a two-year suspension for each breach. The news of the recommended ban came shortly after Rocha attended Spain’s victory over Italy, where he sat in the VIP area with King Felipe VI. Despite efforts to reform the federation with a supervisory commission led by Vicente Del Bosque, Rocha has maintained control with the support of UEFA and FIFA, sidelining the reform efforts.
The ongoing legal battle involving Rocha has cast a shadow over Spanish football, with the TAD’s ruling adding to the uncertainty surrounding the federation’s leadership. As Spain continues its campaign in the European Championship, the fate of Rocha hangs in the balance, threatening to further disrupt the stability of the sport in the country. Despite the turmoil within the RFEF, efforts to hold individuals accountable for their actions are seen as a step towards restoring integrity and transparency within the organization. Only time will tell how the situation unfolds and what impact it will have on the future of Spanish football.