Former Real Madrid player Robinho faces prison sentences in two countries amid rape allegations and court decisions
Robinho, the Brazilian football star and former Real Madrid forward, remains at the center of a high-profile legal saga spanning Brazil and Italy. Reports from RMC Sports indicate that a Brazilian court is prepared to issue a prison sentence related to a rape case. Meanwhile, in Italy, an Italian court convicted the same player, now 40, of gang rape in connection with an incident that allegedly occurred in 2013 when he was a striker for AC Milan. The victim, a woman from Albania celebrating a birthday that day, was reportedly subjected to sexual assault by Robinho and four friends. The Italian ruling sentenced him to nine years in prison, a decision that has sparked discussions about extradition and the next steps in both countries.
Robinho’s legal team has signaled an appeal to challenge the conviction, and the defense is seeking a stay that would delay any immediate arrest pending the outcome of the appeal. The case is also set to be reviewed by higher judicial authorities within Italy, with potential involvement from the country’s Supreme Court of Cassation as part of the appeal process. The unfolding legal proceedings reflect the complexities that can arise when actions from a football career extend into international criminal judgments and cross-border enforcement questions.
Throughout his career, Robinho played for several top clubs, including Real Madrid, where he appeared 101 times between 2005 and 2008 and contributed to winning the La Liga title twice and securing the Spanish Super Cup. His time in Madrid is often remembered for his speed, skill, and eye-catching goals, which helped him become a prominent figure in European football. After Real Madrid, he also played for Manchester City and AC Milan, making a notable impact in both England and Italy. In subsequent years, his playing career included stints in China and Brazil, reflecting a long and varied professional journey that spanned multiple continents and leagues.
In related developments, media outlets have reported comparisons with other high-profile cases in the football world. For instance, there were recent mentions of Dani Alves’ court outcomes and decisions regarding his own case, which have drawn attention to how players’ legal troubles are handled in different jurisdictions. The broader context underscores how football figures facing legal challenges can find themselves at the intersection of sports culture, national legal systems, and international media coverage.