Spanish Authorities Open Inquiry Into Allegations Against Singer Julio Iglesias

Spanish judicial authorities have opened an inquiry into sexual assault allegations involving veteran singer Julio Iglesias, following reports published by Spanish outlet elDiario.es and US-based media group Univision. Two women have accused the internationally known performer of sexually assaulting them while they were working for him, claims that Iglesias has not publicly responded to at the time of reporting.

According to the reports, the women allege that the incidents occurred in a professional context and describe what they say was a coercive and intimidating environment. They claim the behaviour they experienced was part of a broader pattern in which abuse was normalised through threats, control, and fear. The allegations span different periods and were brought forward independently, according to journalists involved in the investigation.

Spain’s judiciary has confirmed that the claims are now under review, marking the first formal legal step since the allegations became public. Officials have not disclosed details about the scope or timeline of the inquiry, citing legal confidentiality. At this stage, the process is understood to involve preliminary fact-finding to determine whether sufficient grounds exist for further legal action.

Iglesias, 81, is one of Spain’s most internationally successful artists, with a career spanning more than five decades and record sales estimated in the hundreds of millions worldwide. He rose to global fame in the 1970s and 1980s and became known for his romantic image, multilingual repertoire, and high-profile personal life. The allegations have therefore drawn significant attention both in Spain and internationally.

The women quoted in the reports said they decided to speak out after years of silence, citing fear of professional repercussions and disbelief that their claims would be taken seriously. They described working arrangements in which power imbalances were stark, leaving them feeling unable to refuse or challenge behaviour they now describe as abusive. Their accounts were supported by contextual details and, in some cases, testimonies from people who said they were aware of troubling dynamics at the time.

Legal experts in Spain note that opening an inquiry does not imply guilt and that all individuals are presumed innocent under the law. They say the process will involve assessing the credibility of claims, available evidence, and whether the alleged conduct falls within prosecutable time limits. Sexual assault cases involving historical allegations can face legal hurdles, particularly around statutes of limitation, though recent legal reforms in Spain have expanded definitions and protections in cases of sexual violence.

The case has also reignited debate in Spain about accountability for powerful public figures and the challenges faced by alleged victims in coming forward. Campaigners argue that high-profile cases can encourage broader discussions about workplace abuse, consent, and the role of institutions in addressing complaints that involve influential individuals.

Univision and elDiario.es said they pursued the story after extensive reporting and verification, emphasizing the public interest dimension given Iglesias’s prominence. Both outlets said they offered Iglesias the opportunity to respond prior to publication, in line with journalistic standards.

As the inquiry proceeds, Spanish authorities are expected to determine whether the case moves forward to a more formal investigative phase. For now, the situation remains at an early stage, with legal scrutiny focused on establishing facts rather than drawing conclusions.

The allegations add to a growing number of cases worldwide in which historic claims against well-known figures are being re-examined through the legal system. Whether this inquiry leads to charges or is closed without further action will depend on the findings of Spain’s judicial authorities in the weeks or months ahead.