Wife of Spain's PM Pedro Sánchez Formally Charged With Corruption

Bribery, Embezzlement and Misappropriation

Begoña Gómez, the wife of Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, has been formally charged with bribery, embezzlement of public funds and misappropriation following a two-year investigation into multiple aspects of her professional life.

What's the Case About?

The case centres on allegations that Gómez used her position as the PM's wife to secure a post at Madrid's Complutense University, where she was put in charge of master's degrees in business studies.

Judge Juan Carlos Peinado opened the investigation in April 2024 to determine whether Gómez had exploited her position for private gain. In a ruling dated April 11 — made public on Monday — Peinado said his investigation had found sufficient indications of criminal conduct.

Although the judge found no evidence that Gómez benefited directly from professional connections owing to her position, he argued that her associate on the master's courses, businessman Juan Carlos Barrabés, had been given preferential access to public contracts.

The Response

Gómez, 55, has denied any wrongdoing and can appeal to have the accusations dropped. Sánchez has also denied the allegations.

When Gómez was first placed under investigation in April 2024, Sánchez took a five-day leave of absence from public duties to reflect on what he called slurs from a "mud-flinging machine" — which he said comprises right-wing media outlets and conservative members of the judiciary.

'A Witch Hunt'

Justice Minister Félix Bolaños accused the judge of carrying out a witch hunt and predicted an appeal court would overturn the charges.

"I think the damage that has been done to the reputation of our justice system is in many ways irreparable," Bolaños said.

Who Brought the Case?

The original complaint came from anti-corruption campaigners Manos Limpias (Clean Hands), led by Miguel Bernad, a figure linked to the far right. The group has filed a series of unsuccessful cases against politicians in the past.

Where Are Sánchez and Gómez Now?

The PM and his wife are currently on an official visit to China — Sánchez's fourth — where he is seeking to position Spain as a mediator in the Iran and Ukraine conflicts.

This article is based on reporting from The Olive Press, published April 14, 2026. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Begoña Gómez denies all charges and has the right to appeal.