Three professional footballers from Argentina’s Velez Sarsfield club have been placed under house arrest following allegations of rape made by a sports journalist.
The judge ordered a 90-day house arrest for three of the players, while the fourth was released on bail. All four have also been suspended from their team, which boasts a prominent history in Argentina’s top league, with former players including Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone.
The case stems from an incident on March 3, when a 24-year-old sports journalist reported being raped after being invited to a hotel room in Tucuman by Uruguayan international Sebastian Sosa. She alleged that the other three defendants were also present in the room. The journalist stated that she felt dizzy after consuming a few drinks, then laid down on a bed where the assault occurred.
Prosecutor Eugenia Posse is pursuing rape charges against players Braian Cufre and Jose Florentin, while Abiel Osario faces accusations of sexual abuse. All three have been placed under house arrest. Sosa, considered a secondary participant, was granted bail and is prohibited from leaving the country for 90 days.
During the hearing, the prosecution sought pre-trial detention for all four defendants to prevent interference in the investigation. If convicted, the players could face prison sentences ranging from four to 20 years.
Velez Sarsfield football club, based in Buenos Aires, has suspended the players and initiated an internal investigation. In a statement, the club expressed deep concern over the allegations, emphasizing that such behavior contradicts its principles and values.
This development coincides with similar cases in the football world, including the recent release of former Brazil international Dani Alves on bail pending an appeal against his conviction for rape in Spain. Additionally, former Manchester City and Real Madrid player Robinho is attempting to postpone the start of his nine-year sentence for involvement in a 2013 gang rape case in Brazil.