Italy Requests Brazil to Extradite Robinho

Italy has requested the extradition of former Brazilian football star Robinho from his home country, following his conviction in a rape case. The former Milan player was sentenced to nine years in prison in Italy for the rape of a woman in a nightclub with five other men in 2013. Robinho, who won the Copa América in 2007 with Brazil, has denied the allegations. His appeal was rejected in January, and on Tuesday, the Milan Public Prosecutor's Office sent an international arrest warrant and extradition request to the Italian Justice Minister in Rome. The Italian news agency ANSA reported that the case documents will be sent to Brazil. However, it is unlikely that the 38-year-old player will serve his sentence in Italy, as Brazil's constitution does not allow for extradition. Robinho could be arrested if he leaves Brazil, at which point the international arrest warrant would become effective. In October 2020, Robinho sought to return to his former club Santos, but faced pressure from sponsors and fans following his conviction, leading to the swift termination of his contract before he announced his retirement.