Sevilla protocol after Rafa Mir conviction, legal reasons protect his contract for now | OneFootball

Rafa Mir has been convicted at first instance of sexual assault, but the ruling is not final and his legal protections remain in force.

El Correo de Andalucía reports that Sevilla say they have an internal protocol for such cases, yet it only applies once there is a final judgment, and labour law requires respect for the presumption of innocence until then.

Mir retains the right to appeal to a higher court, and until that process ends the conviction is not final. Article 24 of the Constitution recognises effective judicial protection, which includes review by a superior court.

Contractually, the club cannot unilaterally end employment solely on the basis of a first instance verdict. That position remains in place while the case is open.

Prosecutors or the private accuser could seek Mir’s immediate imprisonment pending appeal, although it is not automatic. Judges would weigh exceptional factors such as flight risk, destruction of evidence or repeat offending.

Specialists believe elements like his job ties, the constant oversight of a professional footballer and daily club obligations could count in his favour. Even if provisional custody were ordered, that would not automatically end his contract.

The defence is expected to appeal to the Audiencia Provincial, a process that is likely to run through the 2026/2027 season. Until any appeal is resolved and a final ruling exists, Sevilla are required to maintain his contract and their protocol cannot be activated.

Source: El Periódico Mediterráneo