<
>

Robinho's nine-year rape conviction upheld by Italy's top court

Former Brazil international forward Robinho had a nine-year sentence for sexually assaulting a young woman upheld by Italy's top court this Wednesday.

The player's lawyers appealed a decision by Milan's Court and it was denied by the Rome court, Italy's highest judicial instance.

- Stream ESPN FC Daily on ESPN+ (U.S. only)

The Brazilian constitution bans the extradition of its citizens, although Italy can request that Robinho serves a sentence in the South American country.

In 2017, the former Manchester City forward was sentenced to nine years in prison for his involvement in the rape of a 22-year-old woman at a nightclub in 2013.

The 37-year-old Robinho began his career at Santos before starring with Real Madrid, Manchester City and AC Milan, among other clubs.

He's currently without a club.

In 2020, Santos suspended a newly signed contract with him after a sponsor made reference to the player's past sexual assault case and cut its ties with the club.

Brazilian orthodontics franchise Orthopride announced it had ended its sponsorship deal with Santos "out of respect for women" after the club announced Robinho's signing.