Barcelona and Argentine star Lionel Messi remains the focus of attention in recent weeks and not for his performance on the pitch. Allegedly defrauding more than $5 million in income tax returns over a three-year period from 2007-2009, Messi and his father Jorge are in the center of an ongoing fraud investigation that could have a serious impact on the star's life on and off the soccer field.
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As El Periodico reported last week, Messi and his father are being sued by authorities for reportedly stowing away commercial revenues. Spanish authorities also have reason to believe that the duo hid those assets in front companies across tax havens in Uruguay and Belize. The 2013 AP Soccer Player of the Year pulls in about 16m Euros per season so the accusation of possible tax evasion comes as a surprise to those who follow the sport, especially the superstar himself. Posting a statement on his Facebook page last week, Messi denied any wrongdoing.
We have just known through the media about the claim filed by the Spanish tax authorities, Messi wrote. "We are surprised about the news, because we have never committed any infringement. We have always fulfilled all our tax obligations, following the advice of our tax consultants, who will take care of clarifying this situation.
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With investigations continuing as World Cup qualifying continues around the globe, ESPN reports that Messi and his father were ordered on Thursday, June 20th to appear in court for questioning in September. Once the athlete and his dad arrive for questioning on September 17th - where judge Anju Deb Rani of the Gava court will hold the hearing - investigators should have enough information to determine whether or not the Messi's are guilty of any wrongdoing.
Related income concerns Messi's earnings through his image rights with companies including Pepsi-Cola, Adidas, Kuwait Food Company, Banco Sabadell and Danone. Despite the negative story surrounding his image, Messi continues to receive the support of Adidas CEO Herbert Hainer, since the world's best player is expected to be a major figure at the 2014 Adidas World Cup.
"Adidas will continue to work with Lionel," Hainer said to BBC News Europe. "He's the best football player in the world and we are happy that we have him."
If found guilty, Lionel Messi and his father Jorge could face anywhere between 2 to 6 years in prison.
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