Former Manchester City and Brazil forward Robinho is on the verge of serving a nine-year prison sentence in his home country after exhausting all legal appeals against his 2013 rape conviction in Italy.
The 40-year-old footballer, whose full name is Robson de Souza, was found guilty of participating in the gang rape of an Albanian woman in a Milan nightclub during his time playing for AC Milan. Despite fleeing to Brazil after the verdict, justice has finally caught up with the disgraced star.
International Legal Battle Comes to an End
Brazil's Superior Court of Justice ruled last week that Robinho must serve his Italian sentence domestically, rejecting his final appeal. The decision marks the end of a decade-long legal saga that saw the former footballer use every available avenue to avoid imprisonment.
"The defendant will serve his sentence in Brazil," announced Justice Francisco Falcão during Wednesday's session. This landmark ruling establishes that Brazil will recognise foreign convictions when the defendant cannot be extradited.
Football Career Overshadowed by Crime
Once celebrated for his dazzling skills at Santos, Real Madrid and Manchester City, Robinho's legacy is now irrevocably tarnished. The forward made 100 appearances for Brazil and was part of their 2010 World Cup squad, but his sporting achievements pale in comparison to the gravity of his crimes.
Italian prosecutors presented compelling evidence during the original trial, including wiretapped conversations where Robinho allegedly joked about the assault. "I'm laughing because I don't care," he was recorded saying. "The woman was completely drunk."
Brazilian Public Divided Over Verdict
The case has sparked heated debate in Brazil, where some view Robinho as a victim of European justice while others see his impending imprisonment as long overdue. Women's rights groups have welcomed the court's decision as a victory for accountability.
As Robinho prepares to enter prison, the football world reflects on how talent never excuses criminal behaviour. His fall from grace serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of abuse and entitlement.
