The start of Spanish trial for footballer Dani Alves accused of rape

Dani Alves, a former Barcelona and Brazil football player, is currently on trial in Spain for allegedly raping a woman in a nightclub. The incident is said to have occurred in December 2022, and Alves has been in prison without bail for over a year. If found guilty, he could face up to 12 years in prison. Initially, Alves denied having any connection with his accuser, but later admitted to engaging in consensual sexual activity with her. The alleged victim claims that Alves seduced her into a VIP toilet in a Barcelona nightclub and then forced her into having sex with him. In August, Alves was formally charged, and the court decided that there was enough evidence to proceed with a trial. In Spain, rape cases fall under the broader category of sexual assault, with convictions carrying sentences ranging from four to 15 years. The public prosecutor in Alves' case is seeking a nine-year jail term and damages of €150,000 (£128,000) for the woman. Alves, one of the most decorated footballers in history, has had an illustrious career, playing for top clubs such as Barcelona and Paris Saint Germain. He has won numerous titles, including six league championships and three Champions Leagues with Barcelona, and was also part of Brazil's 2022 World Cup squad. However, his most recent club, Pumas UNAM in Mexico, terminated his contract in January 2023 following these allegations. The trial is set to conclude on Wednesday.