Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez’s wife has been charged with influence peddling and private-sector corruption. https://t.co/LPeqZKgg4X
— Bloomberg (@business) April 13, 2026
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez faces growing political pressure after his wife, Begoña Gómez, was charged with bribery and influence peddling and will stand trial.
Pedro Sánchez’s wife, Begoña Gómez, has been charged with influence peddling and bribery following a yearslong investigation. Judge Juan Carlos Peinado confirmed the charges on Monday, meaning Gómez will stand trial. The Spanish government has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing.
The case adds to mounting political pressure on Sánchez, whose minority government has faced multiple corruption probes ahead of next year’s general election. Justice Minister Félix Bolaños said the investigation has “embarrassed many citizens and judges” and warned the reputational damage to Spain’s justice system “will, in many respects, be irreparable.”
Sánchez previously took five days off in 2024 to consider resigning after Gómez came under investigation but stayed on, calling the allegations politically motivated. The case originated from a complaint by an anti-graft group. Meanwhile, Gómez is currently in China with Sánchez during an official visit focused on global conflicts.