The woman who accused former Brazil and Barcelona footballer Dani Alves of rape has formally appealed the recent court decision that overturned his conviction, her lawyer confirmed on Monday.
Alves, now 41, had been handed a four-and-a-half-year prison sentence in February last year after being found guilty of sexually assaulting a woman in a VIP restroom at a Barcelona nightclub on New Year’s Eve 2022. However, on 28 March, a higher court in Barcelona overturned the conviction, citing inconsistencies in the trial and a lack of conclusive evidence to support the guilty verdict.
The complainant’s legal representative, Ester Garcia, revealed that the appeal was filed on Monday—the final day permitted for submission. Garcia declined to disclose the legal arguments behind the appeal, citing strategic reasons.
Last week, prosecutors in Catalonia also announced their intention to challenge the court’s decision.
The overturning of the conviction triggered widespread criticism across Spain. Hundreds of demonstrators, led by feminist groups, gathered in Barcelona to protest, while several members of the Spanish government voiced their disapproval. Deputy Prime Minister Maria Jesus Montero condemned the ruling, describing it as “a step backwards” and lamenting that victims’ testimonies continue to be doubted.
Dani Alves had been in custody since his arrest in January 2023 but was released in March this year after posting bail of one million euros while awaiting the outcome of his appeal.
Widely regarded as one of the greatest right backs in modern football, Dani Alves was instrumental in Barcelona’s success during his tenure, winning three Champions League trophies and six La Liga titles. His illustrious career also saw him secure domestic titles with Juventus and Paris Saint-Germain, along with earning 126 caps for the Brazilian national team.
