Carlo Ancelotti, the renowned Italian football manager and current Brazil national team head coach, has been sentenced to one year in prison by a Spanish court for tax evasion related to his image rights during his first tenure as Real Madrid manager (2014–2015). The 65-year-old faced allegations of intentionally misleading Spanish tax authorities to evade over €1 million (£833,000) in income tax.
Details of the Tax Evasion Case
The legal battle, which unfolded in Madrid’s Provincial Court in April 2025, centered on Ancelotti’s handling of income from his image rights during his initial stint with Real Madrid. Prosecutors argued that Ancelotti’s primary income source in 2014–2015 came from Real Madrid, dismissing his claim that he was not a Spanish tax resident in 2015 due to spending fewer than 183 days in the country. They initially sought a four-year prison sentence.
Ancelotti maintained his innocence throughout the trial, stating, “I was only focused on earning six million net over three years. I never received any notice of an investigation, and I trusted my English advisor when Real Madrid proposed the image rights deal. I didn’t think it could be fraud.” Despite his defense, the court ruled against him on Wednesday, imposing a one-year sentence and a fine of €386,000 (£332,768).
Will Ancelotti Serve Jail Time?
Under Spanish law, individuals convicted of non-violent crimes with sentences of one year or less typically do not serve prison time. As a result, Ancelotti is unlikely to face incarceration but will be required to pay the substantial fine. The manager previously admitted to underpaying taxes in 2014, attributing the error to his accountants, while denying any wrongdoing in 2015.
Ancelotti’s Illustrious Career
Ancelotti, a celebrated figure in football, concluded his second tenure with Real Madrid in the summer of 2025 before taking the helm of Brazil’s national team. During his time at Real Madrid, he secured an impressive 15 trophies, including one UEFA Champions League title in his first stint (2013–2015) and two in his second (2021–2025). His move to Brazil followed years of speculation, marking a new chapter after his storied career at the Bernabeu.
What’s Next for Ancelotti?
As Ancelotti navigates this legal setback, his focus remains on leading Brazil’s national team. The tax evasion verdict adds a complex layer to his legacy, but his achievements in football continue to resonate with fans worldwide. For the latest updates on Carlo Ancelotti and his coaching journey, follow trusted sports news sources.
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