Soccer Star Will Have to Go to Trial for Alleged Tax Evasion
The ongoing tax saga of soccer star Lionel Messi will continue. That news comes after a judge in Spain ruled that the Barcelona FC star would indeed have to stand trial for tax fraud charges in association with his many endorsement deals with foreign companies. The news comes just days after a report stated that Mr. Messi would not have to go to trial, and that only his father would face the courtroom.
Not So Fast
However, the Spanish judge ruled otherwise and said that Mr. Messi and his father should both have to go to trial. Even though his lawyers argued that Mr. Messi did not have any hands-on dealings with his endorsement contracts, the judge ruled that he “couldn’t have ignored” that a large part of his revenue was coming from foreign companies. If he is convicted, the soccer star could receive a sentence for as long as 22 months.
No Jail Time Likely
However, the good news for Mr. Messi is that even if he is found guilty of the charges he will most likely not spend any time behind bars. That’s because sentences for financial crimes shorter than two years are typically suspended according to Spanish law. In addition, Mr. Messi and his father have reportedly either already paid, or have agreed to pay, the missing tax money, plus interest.
The Business of Banking | Steve Tessler
About Steve Tessler Stephen Tessler, a resident of Oakland; has served as an Executive Vice President and Director of Sales of the Bank since 2007. Previously, Mr. Tessler served as a Manager of Business Development and Marketing for Diablo Valley Bank. Mr. Tessler has a degree from San Jose State & Golden Gate University.…
The Tech Museum of Innovation | Tim Ritchie
About Tim Ritchie Tim Ritchie has transformed The Tech Museum of Innovation into a vital community resource that excites and engages people of all ages with programs that help them discover their own problem-solving power. Under Ritchie’s leadership, The Tech has developed new partnerships with schools, created new teacher training programs, and increased its…
Demand Acceleration | Rajiv Parikh
About Rajiv Parikh Rajiv Parikh is the CEO of Position, an integrated digital marketing firm that drives brand visibility and new customer acquisition for technology-driven brands. Position² has operations in the US and Asia with clients from around the world. Their 200 person team combines advertising, marketing, product & technology expertise. The company is…
Building Communities and Balance In Life | John Dutra
About John Dutra John J. Dutra was appointed Chief Executive Officer in 2007. As CEO, he is committed to building on the company’s unrivaled reputation of partnering with local entities, political leaders, property owners and builders. John strongly believes in providing quality, personal integrity and a high level of service in all endeavors. From…