Former Spanish PM Zapatero Faces Major Corruption Investigation In Spain

Former Spanish Prime Minister José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero is under investigation over alleged influence peddling and corruption linked to the controversial bailout of airline Plus Ultra.

Spain’s High Court confirmed that investigators searched Zapatero’s office in Madrid along with several other properties connected to the case. Authorities have summoned the former leader to appear before the court on June 2.

The investigation focuses on the 2021 state rescue of Plus Ultra, which received 53 million euros in financial aid through the government-owned holding company SEPI during the COVID-19 pandemic. Critics had questioned the airline’s financial stability and its connections with Venezuelan businessmen.

The case intensified after several arrests made in late 2025, including businessman Julio Martínez Martínez, also known as “Julito”, who investigators believe is central to understanding the relationship between Plus Ultra and Zapatero.

Authorities are examining allegations that Zapatero played a key role in pushing for the airline’s bailout approval through Spain’s Ministry of Transport, which at the time was led by former minister José Luis Ábalos.

Investigators are also reviewing transactions linked to the company Analisis Relevante, which allegedly handled payments connected to the case. Spanish businessman Víctor de Aldama has claimed that Zapatero received millions of euros in commissions, accusations the former prime minister strongly denies.

The bailout became politically controversial because opposition leaders argued that Plus Ultra was not financially strategic enough to qualify for public rescue funds. The airline’s reported links to figures associated with the Venezuelan government of former President Nicolás Maduro also increased scrutiny over transparency and political influence.

The case has triggered major political debate in Spain. Opposition parties, including the People’s Party, have intensified criticism of current Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez and his government, which is already facing separate corruption investigations involving people close to the administration.

Zapatero, who served as Spain’s prime minister from 2004 to 2011, has denied any wrongdoing and previously stated before lawmakers that he never received illegal commissions related to Plus Ultra.