Spanish Soccer Chief Luis Rubiales Suspended by FIFA Following Controversial Incident at Women’s World Cup
In a shocking turn of events, Spanish soccer chief Luis Rubiales has been suspended by FIFA after a controversial kiss incident involving a member of Spain’s World Cup-winning women’s soccer team. Rubiales will face a 90-day suspension as FIFA’s disciplinary committee investigates the incident that took place during the World Cup final in Australia.
During the medal presentation ceremony, Rubiales kissed midfielder Jenni Hermoso on the lips. However, Hermoso later revealed that the kiss was not consensual and that she did not enjoy it. This revelation has cast a shadow over Spain’s first-ever Women’s World Cup victory against England, as the focus has shifted towards Rubiales’ inappropriate behavior.
Rubiales’ actions did not stop at the controversial kiss. He has also faced criticism for his celebratory behavior, including grabbing his crotch near members of Spain’s royal family. Despite mounting pressure from Spain’s government, soccer clubs, and women players, Rubiales has refused to resign as the head of the Royal Spanish Football Association.
In response to the suspension, the Spanish soccer federation has appointed Pedro Rocha as the acting president until FIFA completes its review. The federation has expressed its trust in FIFA’s procedures, believing that Rubiales will be vindicated by the disciplinary committee’s final ruling. However, the federation itself has faced backlash for threatening legal action against Hermoso for not supporting Rubiales’ version of events.
Apart from the FIFA suspension, Rubiales is also a vice president of the UEFA Champions League. This means that he will be unable to interact with the organization for the duration of his suspension. Furthermore, it is uncertain what impact the suspension will have on Rubiales’ efforts to lead a joint bid by Spain, Portugal, and Morocco to host the 2030 World Cup.
In addition to FIFA’s disciplinary action, Rubiales is facing a lawsuit from the Spanish government for violating the country’s laws against sexism in sports. If found guilty, he could be deemed unfit to hold his office, regardless of the outcome of FIFA’s investigation.
The controversy surrounding Rubiales highlights the deeply ingrained issue of inappropriate and unchecked machismo within the soccer world. Members of the World Cup-winning team have vowed not to play until Rubiales is removed from his position. This incident serves as a reminder that the sport needs to address and eliminate such behavior to ensure a safe and respectful environment for all participants.
As FIFA continues its investigation, the world awaits the final ruling on Rubiales’ fate. The outcome may not only determine his future but also shape the soccer landscape regarding the fight against sexism within the sport.
