A Russian sports commentator and journalist, Dmitry Guberniev, characterized the situation surrounding Spartak forward Quincy Promes as a sizable mess, reporting from the scene for Sports Express. He voiced strong questions about the club, expressing concern for Spartak, a team that is widely regarded and followed across Russia and beyond. Guberniev asked what purpose could be served by turning this episode into something trivial or sensational and urged the Spartak management to account for the decision that led to Promes being at the center of attention. His comments reflected a mix of disappointment and sympathy for the club, paired with a direct critique of the circumstances that brought Promes into the spotlight and the potential consequences for the team.
The incident unfolded during Spartak’s winter training camp in the United Arab Emirates. Because of Promes’s detention, he was unable to travel back to Moscow with the squad, and this absence affected the schedule, including the planned match against Zenit in Saint Petersburg on the following weekend.” The report indicates he would miss, at least temporarily, the clash scheduled for Saturday, March 2. The void created by his absence had the potential to influence team preparation and selection in the lead up to that fixture.
Dmitry Egorov, a journalist covering football, noted that Promes could face a prison sentence in the UAE if found guilty in connection with a traffic incident, with court proceedings anticipated in the near term. Reports from Sport24 later suggested Promes had been released from the police station, though officials had not confirmed his return to Russia at that time. These developments added layers of uncertainty about his status and future with Spartak and in international competition.
Meanwhile, the Dutch prosecutor’s office reportedly intervened, sending a formal request to UAE authorities regarding Promes’s extradition. Earlier in February, a court in Amsterdam reportedly found Promes guilty of smuggling a substantial quantity of cocaine, a judgment that one would expect to influence Dutch legal considerations and the possible grounds for extradition. Despite these claims, no final decision had been made by UAE authorities, leaving the case in a state of limbo as both clubs and officials awaited clarity.
In related commentary, Alexander Mostovoy had previously criticized Promes’s arrest and the surrounding handling of the case in Dubai, adding to the mixed public reaction and the ongoing debate about the responsibilities of players and clubs when legal issues arise.
Overall, the episode has sparked a broader discussion about how such incidents affect a prominent club like Spartak, the expectations of supporters, and the district of professional football that operates across borders. It also raises important questions about the timeline for disciplinary measures, potential transfers, and the readiness of the squad to compete at a high level while Promes’s legal status remains unresolved. The ongoing situation continues to unfold as timelines, evidence, and legal determinations shape the next moves for Promes, Spartak, and the broader football community.