Arrest warrant issued for disgraced former Spanish FA president Luis Rubiales amid Saudi-linked corruption allegations

Prosecutors have requested that the disgraced official be arrested as authorities look into the deal to play Supercopa de Espana games in Saudi Arabia, Onda Cero reports. Rubiales has not yet been taken into custody because he is currently in Dominican Republic. Six other individuals are also set to be detained after Guardia Civil officers searched the RFEF headquarters as well as Rubiales' property in Granada and several other private homes.

A statement from Spanish football's governing body read: "Today, the RFEF has offered full collaboration to the State Security Forces and Corps, as well as to the Justice Department, after the search of its headquarters; and has opted for absolute transparency in the institution that runs football in Spain. In this sense, he considers that the ultimate consequences must be reached in the ongoing investigation.

"The Federation shows its deep concern about the events that occurred today and advocates offering all possible transparency, honoring the values that football represents and that its leaders must defend, and must be an example for society."

The deal to restructure the Supercopa de Espana and move it to Saudi Arabia was agreed in 2019, changing it from one match between two teams into a four-team tournament including the winners and runners-up of La Liga and the Copa del Rey. The RFEF will earn a reported €240 million (£205m/$260) over six seasons.

Rubiales' tenure as RFEF president came to an end last year after he kissed Jenni Hermoso without the star's consent as he handed out winners' medals after they beat England in the Women's World Cup final. FIFA banned the official for three years and the punishment was upheld after he appealed against it, with the governing body insistent he was lucky to avoid further punishment. He may even face prosecution for sexual assault after an investigation was opened up in Spain. Rubiales has consistently protested his innocence against the accusations, accusing Hermoso of lying about the situation.

The investigation into the Supercopa deal began following a formal legal complaint that was made in May 2022. It is not yet known if Rubiales or the other individuals being investigated will be prosecuted by authorities.