Hugo Mallo, the former captain of Celta Vigo, has been found guilty by a Barcelona court of sexually assaulting a woman who was dressed as the team mascot for LaLiga rival Espanyol during a match in 2019. Mallo, now playing for the Greek club Aris, was convicted for inappropriately touching the woman, who was in a parakeet costume, as players lined up to greet one another before the game.
Following the ruling, Mallo expressed his intention to appeal and denied any allegations against him. He has been ordered to pay a fine of 6,000 euros (approximately $6,629), along with 1,000 euros in compensation to the victim. Additionally, he is responsible for all legal expenses incurred during the trial.