26-8-2023 (MADRID) FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee has taken the step of provisionally suspending the head of the Spanish soccer federation (RFEF), Luis Rubiales, for a duration of 90 days. This decision comes in the wake of a contentious incident in which Rubiales kissed player Jenni Hermoso on the lips without her consent, following Spain’s victory at the Women’s World Cup.
Initially, Rubiales was expected to announce his resignation on Friday, but instead, he declared that he would not step down. The RFEF also threatened legal action to defend him after Hermoso expressed that she did not consent to the kiss.
In an official statement, FIFA stated, “The chairman of the FIFA Disciplinary Committee… has decided today to provisionally suspend Mr. Luis Rubiales from all football-related activities at national and international levels.”
Moreover, the disciplinary committee has issued directives to both Rubiales and RFEF officials and employees, instructing them to refrain from contacting or attempting to contact Jenni Hermoso or individuals associated with her.
The controversy surrounding this incident has prompted the Spanish national team that secured victory at the Women’s World Cup, as well as several other players, to declare their refusal to participate in international matches as long as Rubiales remains at the helm of the federation.
“The decision adopted by the chairman of the FIFA Disciplinary Committee has been communicated today to Mr. Luis Rubiales, the RFEF, and (European soccer body) UEFA for due compliance.”
The committee has stated that no further details regarding the disciplinary proceedings will be released until a final decision is reached.
As of now, there has been no immediate response from the RFEF. Reuters has reached out to UEFA, where Rubiales serves as a vice president, for their comments on the matter.
