Former Barcelona and Brazil full-back, Dani Alves, has been denied bail yet again in relation to an ongoing investigation into a sexual assault claim. The 40-year-old was arrested in January 2023 for allegedly sexually assaulting a lady on December 30, 2022, in a Barcelona nightclub. Following the accusation, Alves’ contract with Mexican club Pumas UNAM was terminated and he was jailed without bail.
Despite repeated requests from Alves’ defence team to release him on bail while the investigation continues, the court has repeatedly refused. After a review of footage presented by the defence showing alleged flirting with the accuser, it was decided on Monday that Alves will remain in jail. However, the court dismissed this evidence, stating that flirting should not “in any way justify an eventual sexual assault.”
Alves still remains in custody and has apparently been labelled a flight risk, despite the defence’s willingness to surrender his passports and agree to a tracking device. Claims that he and his family intended to live in Barcelona were rejected by the court after it was found that his kids were only registered as residents a couple of weeks ago.
As a well-known athlete, Alves’ situation has garnered significant attention from the sports community. While the case has yet to go to trial, the allegations against Alves are serious and will undoubtedly have an impact on his career and reputation. As always, it’s important to remember that athletes are not above the law and must be held accountable for their actions, both on and off the field.
