Former Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti has been sentenced to one year in prison by a Madrid court for tax fraud committed in 2014. The Italian manager was accused of failing to declare income related to his image rights while working at Real Madrid. He was cleared of similar charges related to 2015.

Large Fine and Restrictions Imposed

In addition to the prison sentence, Ancelotti was ordered to pay a fine of €386,361.93. He has also been barred from receiving public aid, tax benefits, or Social Security incentives for three years. The Madrid Provincial Court stated that the civil liability from the case is owed to the Spanish tax agency for the same amount.

No Jail Time Likely Under Spanish Law

Despite the sentence, Carlo Ancelotti is unlikely to serve time in prison. Under Spanish law, prison terms of less than two years for non-violent crimes are usually suspended for first-time offenders.

Prosecutors Accused Ancelotti of Over €1 Million in Fraud

Spanish prosecutors had accused Ancelotti of defrauding over €1 million in total, with €386,000 related to 2014 and €675,000 to 2015. The court, however, only found enough evidence to convict him for the 2014 tax year.

Ancelotti Claimed He Followed Club and Advisor Guidance

During the trial in April, Ancelotti told the court that he never intended to commit fraud. He said he followed advice from Real Madrid and his legal advisors, and had already repaid the money in full by December 2021. His legal team had also requested the court to consider mitigating factors, including repayment of the debt and delays in the legal process.

Main image: Shutterstock/Jose Breton- Pics Action