Valencia has made the decision to initiate disciplinary proceedings against their forward, Rafa Mir, following his arrest by the Spanish Guardia Civil police last week for alleged sexual assault. The club’s sources have indicated that Mir will face fines and be separated from the team for an unspecified period of time. In a statement, Valencia reiterated their strong stance against violence in any form while acknowledging the need to respect the legal presumption of innocence.
Reasoning Behind the Disciplinary Measures
The club has emphasized that despite the ongoing legal investigation into the allegations against Mir, they have opted to take internal disciplinary action due to his off-field behavior negatively impacting his professional responsibilities as a player. By addressing the situation within their jurisdiction, Valencia aims to maintain the performance standards expected of all their athletes and preserve the trust of their supporters in the team.
Earlier in the day, Rafa Mir publicly denied the accusations of sexual assault and expressed regret for failing to adhere to the strict schedule required of a professional player, particularly following a disappointing start to the season. Mir, who has previous experience with clubs like Wolves and Sevilla, has been proactive in asserting his innocence and acknowledging his lapse in meeting the expected standards of conduct.
Judicial Process and Restrictions
Following his arrest and subsequent testimonial before a judge, Rafa Mir has been released conditionally, pending further investigation into the case. The judge overseeing the proceedings will determine whether there is sufficient evidence to proceed to trial or if the charges against Mir will be dropped. As part of his release conditions, Mir is obligated to regularly appear in court and is prohibited from leaving the country, as the legal process unfolds.
Valencia has affirmed its commitment to cooperating fully with law enforcement agencies to provide any necessary assistance throughout the investigation. By aligning with the judicial system’s requirements and upholding ethical standards within the club, Valencia aims to navigate the complexities of the situation responsibly and transparently, ensuring accountability at all levels.