Julio Martínez Allegations: Sources Call Plan a Draft That Never Materialized
Madrid – Investigators examining the alleged improper influence of former Spanish Prime Minister José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero in securing a government bailout for Plus Ultra Líneas Aéreas have uncovered a contract outlining a potential commission for businessman Julio Martínez Martínez, a close friend of Zapatero, tied to the success of the airline’s rescue. The document, found on a computer seized during a December raid, stipulated a 1% commission for Martínez should he successfully lobby the government of Pedro Sánchez to approve financial aid for the struggling carrier, according to reporting by El Mundo.
The 53 million euro bailout was ultimately approved in March 2021, raising scrutiny over the relationship between Martínez, Zapatero, and the Sánchez administration. Sources close to Martínez have acknowledged the existence of the contract but characterized it as a “draft that never had effect,” asserting it was never materialized. This claim echoes statements reported by The Objective, which also noted the document was found on a seized computer.
Martínez had been contracted by Plus Ultra as an external advisor in 2020, tasked with liaising with authorities in Venezuela – where Plus Ultra has significant operations – to resolve operational issues. The newly revealed contract suggests a broader scope for his involvement, extending to securing government support. The case centers on whether Plus Ultra qualified as a strategically important company, justifying the substantial public funds allocated to its rescue. Critics, including the Vox party, initially filed a complaint alleging potential malfeasance and prevarication in the granting of the aid, as detailed in reporting by Libertad Digital.
While sources claim the commission was never paid, the amount – potentially around 500,000 euros based on the initial 50 million euro aid request – roughly aligns with payments Martínez received, according to reports. The contract’s existence adds another layer to the ongoing investigation, which is examining financial transfers from Martínez to Zapatero. The timing of payments from Martínez to Zapatero’s daughters shortly after the Air Europa rescue has also drawn attention, as noted in a post on X (formerly Twitter) here.
Plus Ultra, facing financial difficulties exacerbated by the pandemic, reportedly drafted the contract out of fear of collapse. However, investigators are continuing to assess whether the agreement influenced the government’s decision to approve the bailout, and whether Zapatero leveraged his connections to facilitate the process. The investigation remains open, with authorities continuing to trace the flow of funds and examine the extent of any undue influence.