Brazilian football icon Dani Alves has been sentenced to four and a half years in prison after being found guilty of sexual assault in a Barcelona nightclub on December 31, 2022. The verdict was delivered after a three-day trial held in February 2024, during which Alves maintained his innocence, claiming the encounter was consensual.

The court’s decision came despite Alves’ assertions, with judges considering the victim’s testimony alongside other evidence. The judges noted that despite the plaintiff expressing her refusal and desire to leave, the assault occurred. As part of the sentencing, Alves has also been ordered to pay $162,700 (150,000 euros) in damages to the woman.

Alves, who has been in pre-trial detention since his arrest in January 2023, retains the right to appeal the verdict. His lawyer, Inés Guardiola, confirmed that they will be pursuing an appeal against the ruling.

The case has stirred widespread discussions about sexual assault and consent, resonating both within Spain and internationally. Alves, known for his illustrious football career spanning successful stints in Spain, Italy, and France, has faced a dramatic fall from grace following the court’s decision.

The judgment underscores the gravity of sexual assault as a crime, emphasizing the importance of respecting the privacy and dignity of the victim. While Alves’ legal team prepares for the appeal process, the repercussions of this case are likely to reverberate through the realms of sport and society at large.