Italian court sentences Robinho to lengthy prison sentence for sex crime

Former Manchester City and Real Madrid star Robinho faces a nine-year prison sentence after being found guilty of sexually assaulting a woman.

The assault took place in Italy in 2013, when the Brazilian was playing for AC Milan. Ricardo Falco, a friend of the player’s, will also face a prison sentence.

Robinho was convicted of rape in 2017, receiving a nine-year sentence. Alongside five other men, he attacked an unconscious 22-year-old woman at a Milan nightclub in January 2013.

After several appeals, his sentence was upheld in December 2020. Now, the appeals process has finally reached its end.

Soccer Italy's Supreme Court confirms Brazil striker Robinho 9-year rape verdict https://t.co/yhnk1JMfEH pic.twitter.com/Yp1FhUmJH4

— Reuters (@Reuters) January 19, 2022

A final decision from the court in Rome has dictated that Robinho’s prison sentence should begin immediately. There will be no room for further appeals.

However, the story is likely to continue. Robinho might not have to serve his sentence after all, as he no longer lives in Italy.

Will Robinho avoid his prison sentence?

Although the Italian justice system can request Robinho’s extradition, the player could veto his deportation. Because the Brazilian constitution prohibits the extradition of Brazilians, it is extremely unlikely that Robinho will enter prison in Italy.

The former player left the country in 2014 to move to his first club Santos.

Since then, he has played in China and Turkey. Now retired, Robinho moved to Santos for a third time on 10 October 2020.

His return would last less than one week. After one of the club’s sponsors ended their deal with the club over the transfer, Santos announced the suspension of his contract.

NOTA À IMPRENSA

O Santos Futebol Clube e o atleta Robinho informam que, em comum acordo, resolveram suspender a validade do contrato firmado no último dia 10 de outubro para que o jogador possa se concentrar exclusivamente na sua defesa no processo que corre na Itália.

— Santos Futebol Clube (@SantosFC) October 16, 2020

An unceremonious press note marked the end of Robinho’s career. The 37-year-old consequently retired to prepare his defence in Brazil.

For Robinho to serve his sentence, Italy would have to request a transfer of execution of the sentence to Brazil. If the Superior Court of Justice ratifies the request, Robinho could serve his sentence in Brazil.

If you or someone you know has been affected by any related crimes, you can contact a free and confidential government helpline at 0808 802 1414.

Featured Image Credit: Getty