Leo Messi Foundation wins lawsuit against outlet ABC after accusations of manipulating accounts

Spanish daily newspaper ABC has been ordered to pay compensation after losing a lawsuit against The Leo Messi Foundation.

The paper had accused the Barcelona star's foundation of manipulating its accounts suggesting a tax fraud.

Gava magistrates' court ruled that £6,455 must be paid in damages plus legal costs, which the foundation is donating to Hospital Sant Joan de Deu in Barcelona.

The ruling reprimanded the media outlet for failing to display due diligence after a series of articles using wording that damaged Messi's honour and reputation.

'The information published is not verified or true, and featured alongside headlines, subheadings and wording, which, based on previous legal proceedings, encouraged the reader to believe the possibility of further tax evasion by the Foundation that carries that claimant's name.'

The ruling is all the more significant as it serves to refute a series of articles published that have served as the basis for legal proceedings brought about by third parties against Messi's foundation and the player's family.

These regard alleged irregularities in the running of the organisation, all of which have, to date, been dismissed.