FC Barcelona has been formally summoned to appear in the ongoing Negreira scandal investigation, with a court hearing scheduled.
Barcelona continues to navigate the complex aftermath of payments made to former refereeing official Jose Maria Enriquez Negreira, spanning 2001 to 2018, as the investigation enters a critical phase.
The club, under president Joan Laporta, has maintained that the transactions—totaling over €7 million—were for legitimate technical reports on refereeing decisions, a practice aimed at ensuring competitive fairness.
Despite earlier exoneration from bribery charges by the Provincial Court of Barcelona, the case persists, with judicial scrutiny now intensifying on documentation and testimonies to verify the services rendered.
In a significant development, the investigating judge has officially summoned FC Barcelona as a witness in the proceedings, as reported by AS.
The club will be represented by vice president Elena Fort at a hearing scheduled for January 27, 2026, while former president Joan Gaspart is required to appear in person on February 6, 2026.
Additionally, current president Joan Laporta, along with former coaches Ernesto Valverde and Luis Enrique, are set to testify on December 12, 2025.
The court has mandated Barcelona to submit original contracts with Negreira’s companies, Dasnil 95 SL and Nilsad SCP, covering 2001–2014, and to identify technicians involved in producing the reports, providing any photos, videos, or originals as evidence.
This summons follows recent testimonies from ex-presidents Sandro Rosell and Josep Maria Bartomeu, whose appearances offered insights into the historical context of the payments.
Barcelona remains cooperative, emphasizing transparency and adherence to legal processes.
The club views the hearings as an opportunity to present comprehensive proof that the expenditures were administrative and non-corruptive in nature.
As La Liga’s integrity remains under global watch, Barcelona’s legal team is prepared to demonstrate full compliance, aiming to resolve the matter definitively.
The outcome could influence not only the club’s reputation but also broader discussions on governance in Spanish football.
Official statements reaffirm commitment to upholding the institution’s values amid ongoing judicial review.
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