Former Mexican soccer star Omar Bravo has been arrested in Jalisco on allegations of child sexual abuse, authorities confirmed.
According to CNN, the 45-year-old, best known for his record-setting career with Chivas de Guadalajara, was taken into custody during an operation in the municipality of Zapopan, per the Jalisco state prosecutor’s office.
Officials said Bravo allegedly abused a teenage girl on several occasions in recent months and may have been involved in earlier incidents as well. He is expected to appear before a judge as the investigation continues.
Bravo rose to national and international prominence as a forward for Chivas, where he became the club’s all-time leading scorer. Over multiple stints with Guadalajara, he scored more than 160 goals across all competitions, surpassing club legend Salvador Reyes.
His career also included time in Spain with Deportivo de La Coruña, a successful run in Major League Soccer with Sporting Kansas City, and appearances for clubs like Cruz Azul, Atlas, and Phoenix Rising.
On the international stage, Bravo represented Mexico in major tournaments, including the 2004 Athens Olympics and the 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany, where he scored twice in Mexico’s group-stage victory over Iran. Between 2003 and 2013, he earned 66 caps for the national team and netted 15 goals.
The news of his arrest has left fans divided. On his Instagram account, where his last post came on September 8, supporters left hundreds of comments expressing shock and sadness. Some called Bravo their childhood idol, while others urged patience until more details come to light.
Authorities said the investigation remains ongoing and additional evidence is being reviewed. As of now, Bravo’s legal team has not issued a public statement.
If you or someone you know suspects child sexual abuse, resources are available. In the United States, contact the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 or visit rainn.org.