María Tato, ex directora de la candidatura del Mundial 2030, en exclusiva para EL MUNDO: "Soy la víctima de una tormenta perfecta" | Fútbol

Key Figures

María Tato, former director of Spain's 2030 World Cup bid, alleges she's a victim of political maneuvering and revenge within the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF).

The Scoring Scandal

Tato admits to altering the rankings of stadium bids, initially including Balaídos stadium but later excluding it in favor of Anoeta. She claims this was due to a correction of errors in applying FIFA's criteria, a claim disputed by fellow committee members Fernando Sanz and Jorge Mowinckel.

• Tato maintains the changes were made with objective criteria, supported by emails and evidence.
• She denies favoritism, pointing out her support for a rival team.

Political Interference

Tato suggests the conflict stems from a power struggle between the RFEF and the Higher Sports Council (CSD). The government's proposed inclusion of 'strategic criteria,' favoring locations near neighboring countries, allegedly impacted the Vigo stadium bid.

Tato's Resignation

Tato resigned, claiming it wasn't due to guilt, but to escape the situation stemming from the scandal.