Former RFEF President Faces Sexual Assault Lawsuit: Rubiales Confronts Serious Charges
Spanish football is once again in the spotlight as Luis Rubiales, the former president of the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) and vice president of UEFA, finds himself at the center of a sexual assault lawsuit. Rubiales, 46, who recently stepped down from his position following the controversy sparked by an alleged non-consensual kiss, now faces serious charges that could result in a fine or even a prison sentence.
The uproar began when Rubiales kissed Spanish midfielder Jennifer Hermoso on the lips during a medal presentation at the Women’s World Cup. Hermoso later stated that she did not give consent for the kiss, leading to widespread condemnation of Rubiales’ actions. FIFA initially suspended him pending an investigation, and Hermoso filed a complaint with Spain’s national prosecutor’s office, which has now been taken up by the country’s high court.
Spanish state prosecutors have gone a step further by filing a lawsuit against Rubiales, charging him with sexual assault and coercion. If found guilty, he could face severe consequences. The seriousness of these charges has rallied support for Hermoso worldwide, with many labeling the incident as sexual assault.
To understand Rubiales’ background, we delve into his past. He was born in Las Palmas, Canary Islands, and grew up in the Motril region of Granada. Rubiales began his football career, playing for clubs like Guadix CF, RCD Mallorca B, and Alicante CF. In 2004, he made his debut in the Spanish top-flight league.
Rubiales’ career took an interesting turn when, at the age of 32, he signed a one-year deal with Scottish Premier League team Hamilton Academical. However, he retired soon after and returned to Spain. In 2010, Rubiales was elected as the President of the Association of Spanish Footballers (AFE), a position he held until 2017. Following this, in May 2018, he became the President of RFEF, a position he held until his recent resignation.
These past years have not been without controversy for Rubiales. Corruption allegations emerged, involving leaked documents and audio recordings between Rubiales and footballer Gerard Pique. The leaked files, known as the Supercopa Files, revealed discussions of Rubiales negotiating commissions with Pique related to the Supercopa de España held in Saudi Arabia. He requested that Barcelona and Real Madrid participate in the event.
In light of the recent incident with Hermoso and previous allegations, Rubiales’ actions have come under intense scrutiny. During Spain’s triumphant Women’s World Cup celebration, Rubiales’ non-consensual kiss to Hermoso, coupled with an inappropriate gesture towards his crotch, shocked spectators. Notably, Queen Letizia and her young daughter were in close proximity.
Consequences for Rubiales seem inevitable. The Association of Spanish Footballers (AFE) has threatened to demand the application of the Sports Law if he doesn’t resign immediately. La Liga has filed a complaint with the High Sports Council, seeking Rubiales’ disqualification. Furthermore, FIFA has initiated disciplinary proceedings against him, while football players worldwide have publicly criticized his behavior.
As the case unfolds, it remains crucial to allow the legal process to run its course. The lawsuit against Rubiales will shed light on the truth behind the sexual assault allegations. The football world, fans, and authorities are watching closely to see how justice will be served, and the repercussions for Rubiales if he is indeed proven guilty.
