Former footballer Robinho, who played for top European clubs including Real Madrid and AC Milan, has publicly addressed life in prison for the first time since beginning his sentence in Brazil. At 41, the former Brazil international has spent over 18 months in Tremembé Prison, São Paulo, serving a nine-year sentence related to a 2013 group sexual assault case in Italy.
During his first public update, Robinho clarified that he does not receive any special privileges or treatment from prison authorities. His daily routine is the same as that of other inmates, including standard meals and sleep schedules. Allegations that he exerts influence over fellow inmates or suffers from mental health issues were also dismissed.
Prison life is largely restricted, with recreational football permitted only on Sundays when work activities are paused. Robinho’s experience reflects the prison’s focus on rehabilitation and resocialization, with strict adherence to rules and supervision by guards.
Robinho’s time in Tremembé began after leaving his home in Santos, followed by a ten-day period in isolation before moving into a shared cell. His co-defendant, Ricardo Falco, joined him three months later to serve the same sentence.
Reports indicate that Robinho requested a transfer to another facility within São Paulo state, which was denied by a judge. His legal team had proposed three alternative locations, but the appeal was directed to prison authorities for review.
Robinho’s account provides an inside look at the reality of life behind bars, dispelling claims of preferential treatment and highlighting the structured, controlled environment of Brazil’s penitentiary system.
