Former Spain coach Vicente del Bosque will lead the commission created by Spain’s Higher Sports Council to oversee the country’s soccer federation. This decision follows a corruption investigation involving the current and former federation presidents.
The commission was established as an extraordinary measure to address the crisis within the institution and to protect Spain’s national interests.
With Spain set to co-host the 2030 men’s World Cup and aiming for success at the upcoming men’s European Championship and Paris Olympics, the government is concerned about the federation’s reputation.
According to Pilar Alegría, the minister representing Spain’s top sports authority, Del Bosque’s involvement is significant as he embodies the best of Spanish soccer, having led the national team to victory in the 2010 World Cup and the 2012 European Championship.
The decision comes after an investigating judge widened a corruption probe to include federation president Pedro Rocha, following the arrest of former president Luis Rubiales. The investigation focuses on contracts related to the Spanish Super Cup and the federation’s connections with Seville’s La Cartuja Stadium, among other matters.
Both Rocha and Rubiales have denied any wrongdoing. Rocha assumed the role of interim president after Rubiales resigned in September, following a controversial incident during the Women’s World Cup awards ceremony.
