Begoña Gómez, the wife of Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, has submitted her airline tickets to Judge Juan Carlos Peinado to document her recent trip to the United Kingdom. The travel was authorized by the court specifically for her to attend her daughter's university graduation in London. This submission follows a demand from the judge, who had requested evidence that the passport, which was temporarily returned to her, was used exclusively for the permitted purpose. Upon reviewing the passport after her return, the court noted the absence of physical entry or exit stamps, prompting the judge to order her to provide further proof within five days or face potential accusations of violating precautionary measures.
In a formal legal filing, Gómez’s defense team, led by Antonio Camacho, criticized the judge's requirement as a "surprising" and "devilish test." The defense argued that the United Kingdom has transitioned to a digital border control system, which no longer involves stamping physical passports. Consequently, they asserted that the lack of a stamp does not serve as evidence of any wrongdoing or unauthorized travel. The defense further contended that the burden of proof lies with the prosecution, and requiring Gómez to prove she did not commit a crime violates her right to the presumption of innocence.
This development is the latest in a broader legal investigation involving Gómez, who is set to face trial on charges including influence peddling and corruption. As part of the ongoing judicial process, she remains under precautionary measures, including a travel ban and a requirement to report to court twice a month. The case has sparked significant political debate in Spain, with supporters of the Prime Minister describing the investigation as politically motivated, while critics and opposition groups emphasize the need for judicial accountability.