Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) Chief Luis Rubiales kisses Spain player Jennifer Hermoso after the FIFA Women's World Cup 2023 final - Twitter.
Luis Rubiales, the head of the Spanish Football Federation, is compelled to step down after causing a stir with an unwelcome kiss to player Jenni Hermos. FIFA has started disciplinary proceedings against him for his actions.
Unwanted Kiss Controversy
Rubiales’ position became increasingly difficult following his behaviour after Spain’s World Cup victory against England in Sydney last Sunday. Apart from the controversial kiss, he hugged and kissed other Spanish players and made a crude gesture near 16-year-old Princess Infanta Sofía and Queen Letizia of Spain.
Initially, Rubiales dismissed critics as “idiots,” but he later apologized as the backlash intensified. This incident sparked outrage, both within and outside Spain, with government ministers and prominent figures demanding his resignation.
Public and Political Backlash
Spain’s acting prime minister, Pedro Sánchez, deemed Rubiales’ apology “insufficient and inadequate.” Acting second deputy prime minister, Yolanda Díaz, called for his resignation.
Pressure mounted when FIFA opened disciplinary proceedings, and Hermoso, in a joint statement with her union, emphasized that such actions “should never go unpunished.”
Sant Andreu, a lower-league side, was the first to demand Rubiales’ resignation, and Ángel Torres, president of LaLiga side Getafe, condemned his “deplorable behaviour.”
Internationally, United States forward Megan Rapinoe criticized Rubiales. She highlighted a “deep level of misogyny and sexism” in the federation.
Regional RFEF leaders held a crisis meeting in Madrid to discuss Rubiales’ future and potential successors. At the end of the meetings, they considered Pedro Rocha and Pablo Lozano’s favourites to replace him.
Past Controversies During Rubiales’ Tenure
Rubiales’ presidency had been marred by controversy, including the sacking of Spain coach Julen Lopetegui before the World Cup and the decision to take the Spanish Super Cup to Saudi Arabia. Allegations of misusing RFEF funds and spying on the RFEF president, David Aganzo, also surfaced.
Last September, 15 players from the women’s national team criticized the federation’s lack of support and coaching team issues, causing a crisis during the World Cup preparation. Rubiales supported the coach, Jorge Vilda, leading to player disruptions and discontent.
The End of Rubiales’ Era
In light of these controversies, Rubiales’ potential resignation will mark the end of a tumultuous era in Spanish football leadership.
Source: ESPN
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