High-Profile Case in Manchester
Jose Vicente Leiva-Modahl, 65, a former Olympic athletics coach and ex-husband of middle-distance runner Diane Modahl, has appeared at Manchester Crown Court, pleading not guilty to 19 charges of sexual offences against a child. The alleged offences span 2012 to 2024 and involve a single female victim whose identity is protected.
Trial Delayed Until 2028
Judge Nicholas Dean KC announced that the earliest trial date would be 4 September 2028, acknowledging the frustration but citing the court’s workload. “It just can’t be right that a case of this nature has to be adjourned until 2028, but that’s beyond my control,” he said. Modahl is next due for a pre-trial hearing on 8 June.
Bail Conditions and Restrictions
Modahl has been released on bail under strict conditions, including residence in Warrington, a curfew from 21:00 to 07:00 monitored electronically, and no contact with witnesses. He must surrender his Spanish passport, refrain from applying for travel documents in the UK, Norway, or Spain, and have no unsupervised contact with anyone under 18.
Career and Suspension
Modahl coached British athletes including Diane Modahl, David Grindley, and Guy Bullock, and also worked as an agent. Following the allegations, he has been suspended by UK Athletics, the governing body for the sport.
Legal Proceedings Ahead
The judge encouraged Modahl to stay in contact with his solicitors, who may seek an earlier trial date if possible, noting the “significant volume of work” affecting the court schedule.
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