FIFA initiated disciplinary proceedings against Luis Rubiales on Thursday after the Spanish Football Federation president kissed Spain star Jenni Hermoso on the lips following the Women’s World Cup final last weekend.
In response to the incident, FIFA’s disciplinary committee informed Luis Rubiales, the president of the Spanish Football Association, that they were commencing disciplinary actions based on the events during the final, as stated by world football’s governing body.
FIFA cited potential violations of article 13 paragraphs 1 and 2 of the FIFA disciplinary code concerning the incident.
The president of the RFEF, Luis Rubiales, received a joint statement from Spain star Hermoso and union Futpro on Wednesday, urging appropriate action to be taken.
The statement expressed the need to ensure that such actions are not left unpunished, emphasizing the importance of sanctions and protective measures for women footballers against what they deemed unacceptable behavior.
Amnesty International expressed support for Hermoso’s demands, asserting that the non-consensual kiss amounted to a form of sexual violence that could not be justified in any manner.
Liga F, Spain’s women’s football league, also demanded Rubiales’ removal from his post. The RFEF launched an investigation and convened an emergency meeting to address the matter.
Rubiales initially defended himself before later apologizing, but criticism of his behavior persisted.
Spanish prime minister Pedro Sanchez deemed Rubiales’ apology insufficient.
Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti criticized Rubiales’ conduct, stating that it was not befitting of a federation president.
Ancelotti refrained from speculating on whether Rubiales should resign, believing he would make the appropriate decision.
Rafa Benitez, manager of Celta Vigo, echoed the sentiment that the competent authorities should decide on the matter, emphasizing that the behavior was inappropriate.
Getafe president Angel Torres expressed criticism of Rubiales, calling for his immediate removal from office.
Megan Rapinoe, a prominent women’s player, strongly condemned Rubiales’ actions, referring to it as a manifestation of misogyny and sexism.