Di Stéfano’s family seeks order after marriage vow

The five daughters of legendary Real Madrid forward Alfredo di Stéfano have moved to have their father declared incapable by a judge and “precautionary measures” to be taken to protect his estate after the 86-year-old announced his intention to marry his secretary, who is 50 years his junior.

“In the face of the evident deterioration of his physical and cognitive faculties, awaiting a medical diagnosis on his state of health, his daughters [...] have taken the decision to ask the competent court to issue a declaration of incapacity,” read a statement issued by the family.

Real Madrid honorary president Di Stéfano has been romantically involved with Gina de González, a former journalist, for three years after they met at the club. “I am getting married because I want to and I have been a widower for eight years,” responded Di Stéfano. “Each madman to his own. I’m in love and I’m marrying Gina. My heart is still young.” Di Stéfano said he plans to wed “in 15 days or a month.”

The relationship has been frowned upon by both his family and the club he helped turn into the most successful in European soccer. De González had been banned from the VIP box at the Bernabéu until Di Stéfano said he would not attend until the veto was lifted.

The daughters said they were acting to prevent any harm coming to their father who “we consider because of his vulnerability and media projection may be subject to abusive conduct to his person while seeking to protect his image and honorability.”