Barcelona, Spain – Former Vice President of the Technical Committee of Referees (CTA), José María Enríquez Negreira, underwent a new forensic evaluation on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, as the investigation into alleged sporting corruption nears its final stages. The 78-year-classic appeared at the Institut de Medicina Legal i Ciències Forenses de Catalunya in Barcelona, accompanied by a woman, for the examination, according to reports from El Periódico and ABC.
The renewed medical assessment comes at the request of Negreira’s defense team, who argue his cognitive abilities have deteriorated since a previous evaluation in 2023. His lawyers contend this decline prevents him from adequately defending himself in the ongoing legal proceedings. The core of the case revolves around approximately €7.5 million in payments made by FC Barcelona to Negreira and his son for referee reports, some delivered verbally, prior to matches. Prosecutors suspect these payments were linked to potential corruption within Spanish football.
Negreira reportedly appeared “nervous and overwhelmed” upon arrival, as described by El Periódico. He was punctual for the 9:00 AM appointment. The defense’s request for the forensic evaluation centers on a potential claim of dementia, which, if substantiated, could lead to his exclusion from the case. Daniel Pérez-Esqués, Negreira’s lawyer, previously submitted documentation arguing his client’s cognitive impairment hinders his ability to fully participate in his defense.
This isn’t the first time Negreira’s mental state has been scrutinized. He was initially examined by forensic doctors in October 2023, shortly after the investigation – known as the ‘Caso Negreira’ – was opened. At that time, the investigating judge determined he retained sufficient mental capacity to stand trial, despite acknowledging some age-related cognitive decline. However, the defense now presents a more recent report from the Fundación ACE, a leading international center for Alzheimer’s treatment, suggesting a worsening condition.
According to the defense, the Fundación ACE report indicates a cognitive impairment level of 5 on the GDS (Global Deterioration Scale) of Reisberg, which corresponds to “moderate dementia.” The legal team asserts this deterioration is “undeniable” and necessitates a new forensic assessment. Negreira invoked his right to remain silent during a previous questioning in March 2024.
The investigation is now in its concluding phase. The only remaining scheduled testimony is that of FC Barcelona’s legal representative and club delegate, Carles Naval, on April 10, 2026. If no further evidence is requested, the judge will decide whether to conclude the investigation and forward the case to the public prosecutor’s office for potential indictment. A trial date remains undetermined.
The case has drawn significant attention within the Spanish football community. Former FC Barcelona presidents Sandro Rosell and Josep Maria Bartomeu are also implicated in the investigation. Joan Gaspart, another former president of the club, recently testified, stating, “Barça has never committed any irregularities, nor has it bought referees,” according to reports. Gaspart acknowledged that Negreira’s company was contracted to provide referee reports, a practice he described as common among Spanish and foreign clubs, similar to employing scouts and intermediaries.
The initial forensic evaluation in 2023 occurred after Negreira reportedly tripped and fell upon arrival at the Institute of Legal Medicine of Catalonia, though he was able to regain his footing with assistance. This incident highlighted the physical vulnerability of the former referee official as he faced scrutiny in the high-profile case.
The ‘Caso Negreira’ has raised serious questions about the integrity of Spanish football and the potential for undue influence on match officials. The outcome of the investigation and any subsequent trial will likely have far-reaching consequences for FC Barcelona and the individuals involved. The focus now shifts to the upcoming testimony and the judge’s decision on whether to pursue formal charges.
As the legal proceedings draw to a close, the Spanish football federation and fans alike await clarity and resolution in this complex and controversial case. The next key date is April 10th, when Carles Naval is scheduled to provide testimony, potentially offering further insight into the relationship between FC Barcelona and José María Enríquez Negreira.
