Spanish internationals investigated in Andorran watch smuggling case
Real Madrid defender Dani Carvajal and several other prominent Spanish footballers are under investigation by Andorran authorities in connection with an alleged high-end watch smuggling operation. According to reports from El Mundo, the investigation focuses on a company in the Principality of Andorra, Best In Asociados, which is suspected of selling luxury watches from major brands without paying the corresponding taxes.
The Spanish newspaper names Carvajal, alongside fellow internationals Santi Cazorla, César Azpilicueta, and David Silva, as individuals targeted by the probe. The transactions in question are said to have taken place in Madrid and other Spanish cities. According to Sport, seven other Spanish individuals or companies are also implicated for allegedly participating in the sale of watches to the Andorran firm, which then resold them.
The investigation suggests a scheme to avoid significant import taxes by utilizing Andorra's status as a low-tax jurisdiction. The case highlights the ongoing scrutiny of financial activities involving high-earning athletes. For now, the proceedings are at an investigative stage, with no formal charges reported against the players.
Dani Carvajal, 32, is a mainstay at right-back for both Real Madrid and the Spanish national team, with over a decade of service at the Bernabéu. His fellow named players are all established figures with long careers at the top level in Spain and England. Santi Cazorla, now 39, recently retired after a final stint with Qatar's Al Sadd, while César Azpilicueta, 34, currently plays for Atlético Madrid after a long career with Chelsea. David Silva, 38, ended his playing career last year following a serious knee injury suffered while with Real Sociedad.
The potential implications for the players remain unclear as the judicial process unfolds. Any legal complications could, in theory, affect their standing, though such cases often result in financial settlements if wrongdoing is established. The news emerges amid a period of heightened sensitivity around player conduct off the pitch in Spanish football.
Real Madrid and the other clubs involved have not issued public statements regarding the reports. The focus for Carvajal and his Madrid teammates remains on the pitch, with the club competing for La Liga and Champions League titles this season.
