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.
Neymar made his long-awaited return to the pitch after more than a year out due to an anterior cruciate ligament injury, coming on as a substitute during the second half of Al Hilal's AFC Champions League Elite match against Al Ain.
The Brazilian forward entered the game in the 77th minute, replacing Nasser Al Dawsari, shortly after Salem Al Dawsari netted a goal to give Al Hilal a 5-3 lead. Neymar almost made an immediate impact, linking up with Aleksandar Mitrovic to create a chance, but his shot went just wide of the left post.
The match concluded with a score of 5-4 in favor of Al Hilal, even after Al Ain managed to convert a late penalty.
After the final whistle, Neymar shared his feelings.
"I feel good..., he said. “I always have a good team. I'm so happy. I'm back! I'm back!"
The former Paris Saint-Germain star sustained his knee injury during a World Cup qualifier against Uruguay shortly after moving to the Saudi Pro League (SPL). He underwent surgery in November 2023.
Neymar joined Al Hilal from PSG in August 2023 for a reported fee of €90 million but had only played five matches before his injury.
In a show of support, Neymar's former club Santos celebrated his comeback with a message on X.
"It was more than 12 months away from the field, with an immeasurable longing to return to doing what he loves so much," the Brazilian club stated.
"Neymar is not just a star. It's not just genius. Neymar is synonymous with joy in football. His return is the happiness of millions of fans around the world. And, when it comes to fans, the Santos nation has an incomparable feeling. A more than special bond with the best Brazilian player of recent years."
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