EBN – Amidst mounting pressure and controversies, Luis Rubiales, the suspended head of the Spanish football federation, has resigned.
This comes three weeks after kissing a player during Spain’s Women’s World Cup victory, overshadowing the historic achievement.
The controversy surrounding Rubiales gained international attention after Spain clinched the Women’s World Cup title by defeating England. He kissed player Jenni Hermoso during the globally televised awards ceremony.
Kiss Without Consent
Hermoso later asserted that the kiss was without her consent, igniting a firestorm of criticism.
In an interview with English television journalist Piers Morgan, Rubiales confirmed his resignation. “About my resignation, yes, I will do it, yes, because I cannot continue my work,” he said.
His temporary suspension from his role by FIFA had already been in effect due to his conduct at the final. He also remained defiant in the face of criticism.
Pressure Mounts as Rubiales Faces Sexual Assault
However, the situation escalated significantly when Spanish state prosecutors accused Rubiales of sexual assault and coercion following the kiss. Hermoso formally accused him of sexual assault, further intensifying the allegations against him.
Rubiales, once a prominent figure in Spanish soccer, had previously defended the kiss as consensual. He further described it as a “moment of jubilation” similar to one he might share with his own daughters.
Hermoso, as well as her players’ union, disputed this account and accused the federation of pressuring her to support Rubiales.
Amidst the scandal, Rubiales also announced his resignation as UEFA vice president, citing several concerns. Among the concerns is the potential impact on Spain’s joint bid to host the 2030 men’s World Cup.
However, UEFA has not taken any action against him.
The controversy had initially erupted with Rubiales’s conduct at the final, including a lewd gesture.
Spain’s women’s world champions, along with many players, protested by refusing to play for the national team until there was a change in the federation’s leadership.
This move demonstrated a far-reaching consequence of the scandal.
