Barcelona, Spain – Former FC Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu appeared before a judge in Barcelona on Friday as part of the ongoing investigation into the ‘Barçagate’ scandal, maintaining the club never requested the creation of social media profiles to discredit opponents. The case centers around allegations that Barcelona hired a company, I3 Ventures, to damage the reputations of individuals and entities critical of the club’s leadership between 2017 and 2020.
Bartomeu’s testimony comes just days after a previous appearance regarding separate irregularities during his tenure and ahead of the club’s upcoming presidential elections. He stated upon leaving the court, “We did not order the publication of any message against anyone.” This echoes his previous defense, asserting the club’s innocence in orchestrating a smear campaign.
The investigation was initially sparked in February 2020 by reports from journalists Adrià Soldevila and Sergi Escudero of Cadena SER’s Què T’hi Jugues program, which uncovered evidence suggesting a coordinated effort to influence public opinion on social media. The allegations quickly became known as ‘Barçagate’ or ‘Bartogate’.
According to reports from La Vanguardia and El Mundo, Bartomeu explained that the engagement with I3 Ventures, later identified as Nicestream, was intended to monitor social media activity surrounding the club and to counter negative narratives. He specifically cited the tumultuous period following Neymar’s departure in 2017 and the political tensions surrounding the Catalan independence movement as key factors driving the decision. “We were living through enormous tension,” Bartomeu reportedly told the judge.
The former president insisted the club’s aim was not to attack individuals but to “speak positively” about Barcelona and protect its image, including that of its players, coaches, board members, and sponsors. He maintained that any negative messaging was not directed by the club itself.
However, police investigations, including a recent report submitted by the Mossos d’Esquadra (Catalan police), suggest a more complex picture. Investigators reportedly found evidence on Bartomeu’s mobile phone detailing reports generated by Nicestream. A previous police report indicated Bartomeu was aware of the work being done to target rivals and players.
Bartomeu has requested a second opportunity to testify, citing the need to address the recent evidence presented by the Mossos d’Esquadra. He also stated that the contracts with Nicestream were structured in a fragmented manner – a practice he claimed was common within the club and intended to maintain confidentiality.
The financial aspect of the arrangement is also under scrutiny. Investigators allege Barcelona paid Nicestream approximately €2.3 million over three years, utilizing a series of fragmented invoices and contracts to circumvent standard procurement procedures and oversight. The Mossos d’Esquadra believe these funds were used not only for social media management but also for purposes that benefited Bartomeu personally, potentially influencing the 2021 presidential elections.
Bartomeu defended the contract structure, stating it was standard practice for confidential services. He also addressed reports concerning WhatsApp messages uncovered by police, claiming they were taken out of context and promising his legal team would provide the full communication record for review.
The investigation has also focused on alleged attempts to discredit candidates opposing Bartomeu, manipulate public opinion through fabricated polls, and maintain “blacklists” of journalists. The Mossos d’Esquadra reportedly found evidence suggesting these activities were commissioned by Bartomeu and concealed from external auditors.
Jaume Masferrer, Bartomeu’s right-hand man at the club, has also testified, echoing the former president’s claim that no instructions were given to attack individuals or create fake profiles.
The ‘Barçagate’ scandal has cast a long shadow over FC Barcelona, adding to a period of significant turmoil for the club. The case is unfolding against the backdrop of the club’s financial difficulties and the ongoing fallout from other controversies. The next step in the legal process remains unclear, but Bartomeu’s continued defense of the club’s actions will undoubtedly be closely watched by fans and observers alike.
The club is scheduled to hold presidential elections on March 16th, and the outcome of this vote will be crucial in determining the future direction of FC Barcelona. The results of the ‘Barçagate’ investigation could also have significant implications for the club’s leadership and reputation.
Fans and stakeholders will be awaiting further updates from the investigating judge as the case progresses. Archysport will continue to provide comprehensive coverage of this developing story.
