Madrid, May 29, 2025 — Judge Juan Carlos Peinado, who is overseeing the investigation involving Begoña Gómez, the wife of Spain’s Prime Minister, has officially withdrawn his request for information from the Sociedad Estatal de Participaciones Industriales (SEPI) regarding the controversial Air Europa bailout. Furthermore, he has closed the case against Joaquín Goyache, rector of the Complutense University, and Juan José Güemes, an executive at Instituto de Empresa, both of whom were previously charged in the case.
This move comes in compliance with a ruling from the Madrid Provincial Court, which directed the case against Goyache and Güemes to be archived.
Focus Shifts in the Investigation
Although the SEPI request has been rescinded, Judge Peinado has decided to continue pursuing documentation related to Juan Carlos Barrabés, a businessman who remains under investigation in the broader probe.
Sources close to Peinado emphasized that his current inquiries to the Intervención General de la Administración del Estado (IGAE) are limited strictly to information about Barrabés’ companies that do not fall under the jurisdiction of the European Public Prosecutor's Office.
Clarified Scope
It’s worth noting that Peinado has expressly stated his intent to avoid any material related to Globalia, the parent company of Air Europa. This demarcation is a significant clarification amid ongoing scrutiny and political speculation surrounding the bailout.
Background
The Air Europa bailout, facilitated by SEPI, was a contentious element of Spain’s pandemic-era economic support packages. Political opposition raised concerns about favoritism and transparency, particularly due to alleged ties between Barrabés’ businesses and Begoña Gómez. However, no charges have been filed against Gómez herself at this time.
Conclusion
With this judicial shift, focus now narrows exclusively on Barrabés, while several key players—Goyache and Güemes—are formally cleared. The decision could ease political tensions surrounding the case, but scrutiny over public financial support for corporate entities is likely to continue.
By ✍️ Yorlinda Ramìrez - MicuPost Team
Sources:
