Carlo Ancelotti, the celebrated Real Madrid manager, finds himself at the center of a legal storm in Spain. Prosecutors have accused the Italian coach of failing to declare over $1 million in income from his image rights during the 2014 and 2015 tax years. The charges, which stem from his first stint at Real Madrid, have led to calls for a prison sentence of four years and nine months.
Ancelotti, however, has firmly denied any wrongdoing. He testified in court, stating that he believed his financial affairs were in order and that he relied on his advisers to handle such matters. “I never thought about committing fraud,” Ancelotti said during the trial, emphasizing his trust in the Spanish justice system.
The trial, which began on April 2, 2025, and concluded on April 3, 2025, has drawn significant attention, not only for its implications on Ancelotti’s career but also for its broader impact on the world of football. The court is expected to deliver its verdict in the coming weeks, leaving fans and the football community in suspense.
This case highlights the ongoing scrutiny of high-profile figures in sports by Spanish tax authorities. Similar cases have involved football legends like Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, who faced tax fraud allegations but settled their cases out of court. Whether Ancelotti’s case will follow a similar path remains to be seen.
As the football world watches closely, the outcome of this trial could have lasting repercussions for Ancelotti’s legacy and the broader conversation around financial transparency in sports. Stay tuned for updates as the court’s decision approaches.
