Jose Maria del Nido on Monday confirmed that he is giving up his role as President of Sevilla after being sentenced to seven years in jail. Last week, the 56-year-old was foundguilty of embezzlement of public funds and perversion of justice. He said he is giving up the Sevilla Presidency in order to concentrate on his defense.
“The day I hope would never arrive ishere; the day I lose part of my heart,” del Nido said during his farewell press conference. “Since 1986, I’ve been here to serve this club. I’m leaving the post with a heavy heart, withsadness and with humility. When [former Sevilla President] Luis Cuervas called me I was 28 years old and it was the dream of my life and since then I haven’t hesitated in myservice of the club.” He added: “I’ve resigned as president of the club and from all my executive roles here. I’ve no ties to Sevilla now. I’m going to devote my time todefending myself and ensuring my personal situation is as good as possible.”
Under del Nido’s leadership, Sevilla won the UEFA Cup in 2006 and 2007, as well as two Copa del Reytitles, in 2007 and 2010. According to Goal.com, Del Nido has been sentenced for offenses committed during his time as a district lawyer for the municipality of Marbella between 1999 and 2003.