Luis Rubiales: Spanish FA President Suspended by FIFA for Jenni Hermoso Kiss
Luis Rubiales, the president of the Spanish Football Federation, has been provisionally suspended by FIFA following his controversial actions at the women’s World Cup final. Despite widespread criticism, Rubiales has refused to step down from his position after kissing Jenni Hermoso on the lips during the medal ceremony following Spain’s victory over England.
FIFA has also instructed Rubiales and the Spanish FA to refrain from contacting Hermoso or anyone associated with her. The situation took a shocking turn during Rubiales’ press conference, where he vehemently declared that he would not resign. He defended his actions, claiming that the kiss was “spontaneous” and “consensual.” Rubiales further alleged that he is the target of a witch hunt orchestrated by “false feminists” and even threatened to take legal action against his accusers.
In a surprising move, Rubiales announced his intention to offer a new four-year contract to women’s head coach Jorge Vilda. However, Hermoso made it clear on Friday that she did not consent to the kiss. In response, the Spanish football federation (RFEF) expressed their intention to take legal action against Hermoso for her comments about Rubiales.
The expectation was that Rubiales would step down on Friday due to the scandal, but instead, he delivered an extraordinary speech in front of the general assembly of the Spanish football federation, claiming to be the victim of a witch hunt by “false feminists.” This sparked outrage among Hermoso and her teammates, who have now vowed not to represent Spain again, just days after their historic World Cup victory.