Spain’s Supreme Court has overturned the malfeasance conviction of Rafael Louzan, allowing him to continue serving as president of the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF).
Louzan, who faced a seven-year ban for alleged misconduct involving a football pitch improvement contract in Morana, saw his conviction annulled after the court ruled that his actions did not constitute a crime.
The ruling spares the RFEF from another leadership shakeup, following the scandal involving former president Luis Rubiales, who stepped down amid allegations of sexual assault and misconduct.
Speaking on the ruling, Louzan stated, “This decision reaffirms my commitment to Spanish football and to leading the RFEF with integrity and transparency.”
The verdict comes at a crucial time as Spain prepares to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup alongside Portugal and Morocco.
With the RFEF aiming to restore its credibility, Louzan's leadership will be under intense scrutiny.
Critics argue that Spanish football’s governing body still faces systemic issues that must be addressed to move forward.
A Spanish sports analyst commented, “While the ruling clears Louzan legally, the RFEF’s reputation remains fragile, and real reform is necessary to regain public trust.”
As the federation moves forward, all eyes will be on Louzan’s ability to rebuild confidence in the organisation and ensure a smooth path to the 2030 World Cup.
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick expressed that the warm welcome given to Gavi gave him goosebumps, as the midfielder made his comeback from an 11-month injury hiatus during Sunday’s 5-1 victory over Sevilla in LaLiga.
Gavi had been sidelined since tearing his ACL while representing Spain last November, but he came off the bench for the last 10 minutes of the match against Sevilla at the Olympic Stadium.
At just 20 years old, he replaced Pedri and took on the captain's armband, receiving an incredible ovation from the Barcelona fans upon his return to the field.
"I am happy for this result and especially for Gavi," Flick remarked during a press conference. "It's really amazing when you see the atmosphere in the stadium and the fans. It was goosebumps, unbelievable, and I like this.
"Any concerns about how Gavi's intense playing style might be affected by his injury were quickly laid to rest as he immediately engaged in challenges upon entering the game.
"The intensity he brought to the match when he came in was good," Flick noted. "But it'snormal; it's his way to play. Sometimes it's okay to be a bit calmer, but that’s not his style.
"Gavi expressed his joy at returning to action, thanking his teammates and fans for their support and stating that his time away from the pitch has helped him appreciate his opportunities even more.
"I have been dreaming about this for many months, and I am grateful to my teammates who made the process easier for me," he told reporters.
"The hardest thing is not playing, watching from the outside. It's frustrating and tough. You have to enjoy every moment, and [time out] allows you to value the things you have. I feel fortunate to be back.
"I missed playing football the most; this is my life, it is what I have always done. When all the fans and your teammates appreciate you and give you that reception, you feel very lucky."
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