Robinho, Sentenced to 9 Years in Prison, Speaks Out for the First Time: "I’m Not Denying It, I’m Not a Liar"

Former Real Madrid star Robinho was convicted in 2022 for a gang rape committed in Italy in 2013 and is currently serving his 9-year sentence at Tremembé P2 prison in Brazil. The 41-year-old footballer, who played for Real Madrid from 2005 to 2008, remains incarcerated in Sao Paulo. Robinho claims he is innocent, asserting that the Italian justice system ignored evidence that could prove his innocence.

"I’m Innocent, My DNA Wasn’t There"

In an interview with TV Record, Robinho responded to the allegations. “They’ve been spreading lies that I’m a prison leader or that I have psychological issues. The guards run this place, and we inmates just obey. At the time of the incident, we had a superficial and quick encounter. We kissed, and then I went home. There were other people there. When I saw she wanted to continue with other guys, I left. I never denied it; the encounter was entirely consensual. I could have denied it because my DNA wasn’t there, but I’m not a liar,” he said. Robinho insisted he has sufficient evidence to prove his innocence, but claimed it was disregarded by Italian courts.

Brazil’s "Celebrity Prison"

Robinho is serving his sentence at the Dr. José Augusto César Salgado P2 Prison (Tremembé Penitentiary II) in Sao Paulo, known as Brazil’s “celebrity prison.” The facility houses 430 inmates in cells ranging from 9 to 15 square meters, with up to 6 people per cell. Alongside Robinho, the prison holds politicians, celebrities, and notorious criminals convicted of crimes such as rape, kidnapping, and murder.

"I Receive No Special Treatment"

In a video released by the Taubaté Community Council, Robinho emphasized that he receives no preferential treatment in prison. “Visits are on Saturdays or Sundays. When my wife doesn’t come alone, she brings my children. The visitation rules are the same for everyone, as are the meal and sleep schedules. I’ve never eaten different food or received special treatment. When it’s time to work, I do what the other inmates do. If we want to play football, it’s allowed on Sundays when there’s no work,” he said. The 41-year-old former footballer also denied rumors of being a prison leader or having psychological problems.

Sentence Continues

Robinho, who had a stellar career with clubs like Santos, Real Madrid, AC Milan, Manchester City, Sivasspor, and Başakşehir, is now making headlines for his prison life. Serving his sentence at Tremembé P2 with the goal of “re-education and reintegration into society,” the former footballer continues to maintain his innocence. However, the court’s latest ruling indicates that he will remain in prison to serve out his sentence.