Real Madrid defender Raúl Asencio and three former youth team players are set to face trial over allegations involving the filming and distribution of sexual videos, including one case involving a minor, Spanish authorities have confirmed.
The court’s decision follows a lengthy police and judicial investigation into an incident that allegedly occurred on 15 June 2023 at a private area of a beach club on Gran Canaria.
What Happened
According to court documents, three of the defendants—identified in Spanish media as Andrés García, Ferrán Ruiz, and Juan Rodríguez—face charges of distributing child pornography and committing two offences against privacy. Bail for each has been set at €20,000 (£17,400). Asencio faces two offences against privacy, with bail set at €15,000.
The alleged victims are two women, aged 18 and 16 at the time. One woman’s complaint includes all four defendants, while the other excludes Asencio. Authorities said the case followed a complaint filed by the mother of the 16-year-old, who maintained the sexual activity was consensual, but that the recording had been made without her consent.
Raúl Asencio’s Statement
After the pre-trial investigation, Asencio maintained his innocence, saying:
“I have never taken part in any behaviour that has threatened any woman’s sexual freedom, much less that of a minor. I was not involved in recording or distributing the videos and only briefly saw the content.”
He emphasized the importance of the presumption of innocence, noting that he is alleged to have shown one of the videos to a friend.
Legal Proceedings
Prosecutors are reportedly seeking sentences of two years and six months for Asencio, and four years and seven months for the other three defendants. The judicial authorities announced the decision to proceed to trial on Thursday.
Real Madrid previously issued a statement confirming that four youth team players were questioned in connection with a complaint about the alleged release of a private video via WhatsApp.
Public Reaction and Next Steps
The case has drawn widespread attention in Spain due to the high-profile nature of the individuals involved and the serious charges, particularly concerning the alleged involvement of a minor.
The trial will determine the legal accountability of the defendants. Bail conditions remain in place as the case moves forward, and authorities have reiterated that all individuals are considered innocent until proven guilty.
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
