Lately, when they look over their shoulders to see who is closing in on them, MotoGP racers are more likely to see the tax man. Former GP combatant, Sete Gibernau is now being investigated by Spanish authorities, who allege he ducked taxes amounting to €2.8-million for 2005 and 2006.
Gibernau listed his residence as Switzerland during that time and claims he is immune from a Spanish tax burden. Authorities contend he did not live outside of Spain for more than half the year and as such, must contribute to Spain’s coffers.
Gibernau is not alone in his tax predicaments; Valentio Rossi, Marco Melandri and Loris Capirossi have all been hounded. Rossi was ordered to pay a whopping €35-million fine to the Italian government.
Prosecution of high-profile figures has become popular in Europe where economies are still in shaky condition. Ongoing efforts hopped to increase tax revenues, tackle growing national debt and shore up the economy.
