Negreira Undergoes Mental Assessment Ahead of Barcelona Case Testimony

The Negreira case has seen a new and significant development following José María Enríquez Negreira, the former Vice-President of the Spanish Referees Committee, undergoing a forensic medical examination. This examination could prove crucial for the future of the case that has rocked Spanish football since 2023.

According to reports in Spanish newspapers, Negreira underwent a forensic medical examination aimed at assessing his mental state. This follows previous claims from his defense suggesting he suffers from cognitive decline, which might prevent him from giving coherent testimony in court. The test is a pivotal step, as it will determine whether he is fit to appear before the court and provide his statement, or if his health condition will lead to his exclusion from certain stages of the investigation.

Negreira's testimony is considered a central element in the case, given that he is the main figure linked to investigations concerning payments he received from Barcelona during his tenure on the Referees Committee.

The case revolves around financial transfers estimated at approximately 8.4 million euros made between 2001 and 2018. These payments were allegedly for refereeing consultancy services, though doubts persist regarding their true purpose.

Despite more than three years passing since the case erupted, it remains in the investigation phase without a final verdict. The court recently decided to extend the investigation for an additional six months to complete witness testimonies and gather evidence.