In a stunning reversal, former football star Dani Alves has been acquitted of a sexual assault conviction by a Spanish appeals court. The ruling, delivered on Friday, overturns the previous judgment that had sentenced him to four years and six months in prison. This decision marks a dramatic turn in a case that has captivated and divided public opinion.
Alves, the 40-year-old former Brazil and Barcelona defender, was initially found guilty in February 2024 of sexually assaulting a woman in a Barcelona nightclub on New Year’s Eve 2022. Despite maintaining his innocence throughout the proceedings, he was incarcerated, a stark fall from grace for one of football’s most decorated players.
“The appeals court has ruled unanimously to overturn his conviction, stating that there was insufficient evidence to dismiss his presumption of innocence,” the court’s statement read. Judges highlighted “discrepancies between the accuser’s testimony and video footage” taken before the alleged assault, specifically focusing on the period leading up to their entry into the nightclub bathroom.
This legal battle has placed a spotlight on Spain’s controversial “only yes means yes” law, which redefined sexual consent by requiring explicit affirmation. Enacted after the 2016 Pamplona gang-rape case, the law aimed to strengthen protections for victims. However, it has also faced criticism for its rigid application, leading to complex legal interpretations.
For Alves, this acquittal is a moment of profound vindication. After months of imprisonment and the termination of his contract with Mexican club Pumas, he now faces the daunting task of rebuilding his life. “It’s more than just a legal victory,” a close associate expressed, “it’s about reclaiming his reputation.”
The case’s high-profile nature has left an indelible mark. As someone who has followed this case closely, I’ve seen the intense public scrutiny and the emotional toll it has taken. The implications extend beyond Alves, raising crucial questions about consent, legal interpretation, and the public perception of justice.
Alves, who boasts a glittering career with titles at Barcelona, Juventus, and Paris Saint-Germain, as well as Copa América and Olympic gold medals with Brazil, now faces the challenge of moving forward. The stain of the allegations may take time to fade, but the court’s decision provides a crucial opportunity for him to reclaim his narrative.
