The National Hockey League says it is monitoring the family court proceedings of Vancouver Canucks owner Francesco Aquilini, who has denied accusations by ex-wife Tali鈥檃h that he abused their children.
The former couple, who divorced in 2013, are involved in a dispute over support payments and tuition for their four adult children.
鈥淐learly, the parties have been involved in a most contentious divorce,鈥� the NHL said in a statement.
鈥淢r. Aquilini has advised us that he categorically denies the allegations. We plan to continue to monitor the situation and, if necessary, will respond as we learn more as events unfold.鈥�
In an emailed statement from Francesco Aquilini鈥檚 public relations representative Gary Ross, the Canucks chairman and governor said he 鈥渃ategorically denies, and is outraged by, the accusation made by his ex-wife Tali鈥檃h in family court today that he has ever abused his children鈥�.
He was referring to statements by Tali鈥檃h Aquilini鈥檚 lawyer in a Vancouver courtroom on Tuesday.
鈥淢r. Aquilini has met and will continue to meet any child-support obligations required by the law, but he has concerns about the veracity of the information provided in support of financial demands,鈥� the statement said.
鈥淚t is unfortunate that allegations without merit are brought forward for a collateral purpose. He will have nothing further to say at this time as the matter is before the courts.鈥�
