The celebrated player, known for his glittering career and numerous trophies, faced the wrath of justice for raping a woman during a night out on the eve of New Year 2023.
Alves, who had vehemently denied the accusations, insisting on his innocence, now faces the possibility of trading his football boots for prison shoes unless an appeal can overturn the court’s decision.
In addition to his jail time, the court has slapped Alves with a hefty €150,000 (£128,500) fine to be paid to the victim, emphasising the gravity of his actions with a subsequent five-year probation period.
The case unfolded with prosecutors painting a grim picture of the night, accusing Alves of using his fame and champagne to entice three young women, only to isolate one in a VIP area under false pretenses. The court heard how Alves turned violent, disregarding the woman’s pleas to leave and assaulting her in a manner that left her in “anguish and terror.”
Despite Alves’ shifting narratives – from outright denial to claims of consensual encounters – the court found compelling evidence of his guilt, notably his aggressive actions that night.
The victim’s distress was corroborated by a friend who witnessed her uncontrollable tears following the ordeal.
🚨🚨| BREAKING: Dani Alves has been sentenced to 4 years and 6 months in PRISON!
He also has to pay the victim a €150K compensation. pic.twitter.com/maUhlJD2bu
— CentreGoals. (@centregoals) February 22, 2024
This verdict marks a dramatic fall from grace for Alves, who once dazzled fans on the world stage, including his notable performances for Barcelona and his recent appearance in the 2022 World Cup with Brazil.
As he faces his darkest hour, the football world is left reeling from the revelations, with Alves’ legacy now tarnished by his off-field actions. The case, prosecuted under Spain’s stringent “Only Yes is Yes” consent law, serves as a stark reminder of the consequences awaiting those who violate others’ dignity and autonomy.
