In a significant development in the world of soccer, FIFA has temporarily suspended Luis Rubiales, the president of the Spanish soccer federation. This decision comes in light of an incident that took place during the Women’s World Cup final, where Rubiales was seen kissing player Jenni Hermoso following Spain’s triumphant win over England.
The suspension, which will last for 90 days, was imposed to allow FIFA’s disciplinary committee to thoroughly investigate Rubiales’ actions during the event. This incident has caused a significant uproar, especially since Hermoso has publicly stated that the kiss was not consensual and that she felt threatened by the act.
Despite the mounting pressure from various quarters, including the Spanish government, female soccer players, and numerous soccer clubs, Rubiales has resisted calls for his resignation. He has been defiant, even in the face of an emergency meeting convened in the aftermath of the incident.
The controversy doesn’t end there. Apart from the kiss, Rubiales’ behavior during the celebrations has been under scrutiny. He was seen making a lewd gesture, which many deemed inappropriate, especially given the presence of Spain’s Queen Letizia and the 16-year-old Princess Sofía in the vicinity.
Beatriz Álvarez, the president of Spain’s women’s league, expressed her belief that this incident might mark the end of Rubiales’ career in soccer. She stated, “Luis Rubiales is finished. He has dug his own grave with his acts and his words.”
In response to the controversy, the Spanish federation has appointed Pedro Rocha as the acting president. The federation has also expressed its full trust in FIFA’s procedures and is confident that Rubiales will be exonerated once the truth emerges.
However, the situation has escalated further. The federation has hinted at potential legal action against Hermoso for not accepting Rubiales’ version of events. FIFA, on the other hand, has not provided a specific timeline for its ruling on the matter.
This incident has overshadowed Spain’s historic win, their first Women’s World Cup title. The players have shown solidarity with Hermoso, stating that they will not participate in any matches as long as Rubiales remains in his position.
The fallout from this controversy has been widespread. Several political parties, both from the left and the right, have voiced their opinion that Rubiales is unfit for his role. Major sponsors of the federation, including Iberia airlines, have sided with the government’s stance on the issue.
In a show of support for Hermoso, players from Sevilla’s men’s team wore T-shirts with the message, “This is over.” This sentiment was echoed by Alexia Putellas, a two-time Ballon d’Or winner, on social media.
Prominent figures in the soccer world, including Barcelona coach Xavi Hernández, have condemned Rubiales’ actions. Major clubs like Real Madrid and Barcelona have also issued statements criticizing Rubiales.
The Rubiales controversy is the latest in a series of challenges faced by Spanish soccer. It follows closely on the heels of an incident involving racist insults directed at Black star Vinicius Junior.
Rubiales, who holds a significant position in UEFA, has been at the helm of efforts to bring the 2030 World Cup to Spain, Portugal, Morocco, and possibly Ukraine. His suspension could impact these efforts, especially with crucial UEFA meetings and votes on the horizon.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges and controversies that can arise in the world of sports, even amidst moments of celebration and triumph.