Joan Laporta, president of FC Barcelona, firmly defended his club’s innocence in the ‘Negreira Case’ during a 35-minute press conference earlier today. Despite the widespread media coverage and accusations against the club, Laporta claimed that Barcelona never intended to manipulate the competition for a sporting advantage. Standing firm in his convictions, Laporta assured the public that his team did nothing wrong. While the controversy continues to swirl, it’s clear that Laporta and the rest of the organization remain committed to the values of fair play and integrity.
This claim is categorically supported by the fact that the Tax Office, in a document addressed to the public prosecutor, has declared its inability to demonstrate that the payments made by FC Barcelona to companies related with the former vice-chairman of the Referees Committee had anything at all to do with the choice of match officials. It could not demonstrate that because it wasn’t possible
Barcelona’s former president, Joan Laporta, recently defended the club’s history and titles won in recent decades during a speech he gave. He made a point to explain that working with companies in the football industry who have experience with referees is not illegal and should not be considered a crime. It was clear from Laporta’s speech that he felt the need to address any potential misconceptions about the club’s practices, and ensure that the public understands the difference between lawful and unlawful behavior. Laporta emphasized that the club stands for integrity and honesty and would take swift action if any individual or organization acted inappropriately.
Professional counselling is a common practice among all big football clubs and at Barça the practice is clear and transparent, with all the invoices broken down by items. There was never any intention to hide anything.
