Spanish politics will continue to be strongly shaped by the judiciary in 2026. Several ongoing investigations, court cases and judicial inquiries affect the political environment of Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, the Socialist Party (PSOE), as well as former government officials and individuals close to the party.
Pedro Sánchez himself is not criminally charged in any of the cases outlined below. Nevertheless, the accumulation of judicial proceedings is generating sustained political pressure, public debate and intense media scrutiny — both in Spain and internationally.
Spa.in Press
Ábalos–Koldo case: pandemic mask procurement
Investigations into alleged corruption linked to the awarding of emergency contracts during the COVID-19 pandemic remain among the most significant judicial cases in Spain. Proceedings before the Audiencia Nacional are expected to enter a decisive phase in 2026.
Further investigations linked to the “Caso Koldo”
Several related lines of inquiry are examining the role of former officials and civil servants. Spain’s Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office, together with the Guardia Civil’s UCO unit, continues to analyse extensive documentation.
The so-called Cerdán case
Spain’s Supreme Court (Tribunal Supremo) is assessing potential irregularities connected to public construction contracts and infrastructure projects. The case remains at the investigative stage.
Investigations involving Begoña Gómez
Judicial inquiries into the professional activities of the Prime Minister’s wife are ongoing. Various court rulings have upheld certain aspects of the investigation while limiting others. No formal charges have been brought to date.
Court proceedings against the Prime Minister’s brother
David Sánchez is scheduled to stand trial in May 2026. It is one of the few cases with a confirmed hearing date, a factor that has heightened public and political attention.
The Plus Ultra case
Investigations into the state bailout of airline Plus Ultra continue. One subsidiary line focuses on suspected money laundering. There is no proven direct personal link to the highest levels of government.
How long can Pedro Sánchez govern without calling early elections?
As 2026 approaches, the focus is shifting away from swift judicial rulings and towards the Prime Minister’s political resilience. The sheer number of ongoing investigations, court proceedings and media debates is placing growing strain on Pedro Sánchez’s leadership.
The key question, therefore, is not only how the courts will ultimately rule, but how long the Prime Minister can sustain this constant legal and political pressure without calling early elections.
Whether Sánchez can maintain parliamentary support, internal party unity and public patience until the scheduled end of the legislature is likely to become one of Spain’s defining political questions in 2026.
