The Spanish Football Association president, Luis Rubiales, is currently being investigated by FIFA for disciplinary action after he kissed midfielder Jenni Hermoso during the trophy celebration at the 2023 Women’s World Cup in Sydney. This event has sparked controversy and caught the attention of world soccer governing body FIFA. Photo credit: Fernando Villar/EPA-EFE
Aug. 24 (UPI) — FIFA has initiated disciplinary proceedings against Luis Rubiales, the president of the Spanish Football Association, for his actions of kissing midfielder Jenni Hermoso at the Women’s World Cup. The incident, which took place during the trophy presentation in Sydney’s Stadium Australia, was captured on camera and has raised concerns.
During the celebration, Rubiales pulled Hermoso’s head forward with both hands and kissed her on the lips. This act has prompted FIFA to evaluate whether Rubiales’ conduct violates sections of its disciplinary code, particularly those related to behavior that brings the sport of football and/or FIFA into disrepute.
“FIFA will provide more information on these disciplinary proceedings once a final decision has been made,” stated FIFA in a press release.
FIFA reiterates its commitment to upholding the integrity of all individuals and strongly condemns any behavior that goes against this principle,” the organization added.
Following their 1-0 victory against England on Sunday, Hermoso initially expressed her surprise and discomfort regarding the kiss in an Instagram Live session and subsequent interviews. However, the Spanish Football Association later issued a statement claiming that the kiss was “totally spontaneous” and “mutual.”
In response to the controversy, Hermoso’s agency and the women’s soccer union, FUTPRO, released a statement defending her interests and coordinating discussions with relevant parties.
Rubiales apologized for his actions on Tuesday, but Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez deemed the apology insufficient. Additionally, Rubiales was seen grabbing himself and throwing another player over his shoulder during the trophy celebration, further fueling criticism against him.
Various organizations, including the Spanish Players Association, Spain’s Liga F soccer league, and FIFPRO, have condemned Rubiales’ behavior and called for immediate action to address the issue. Criticism has also come from soccer fans and players, such as United States Women’s National Team star Megan Rapinoe.
“There was another picture that signifies a deep level of misogyny and sexism in that federation and in that man [Rubiales] at the final whistle, just grabbing his crotch,” Rapinoe stated in an interview with The Atlantic. “What kind of upside-down world are we in? On the biggest stage, where you should be celebrating, Jenni has to be physically assaulted by this guy.”
Hermoso, a prolific player who scored three goals and provided two assists for Spain in the 2023 Women’s World Cup, has represented her country in over 100 international matches since 2012. The incident involving Rubiales and Hermoso is the second investigation conducted by FIFA related to the tournament, with the first involving allegations against the Zambian team’s coach, Bruce Mwape.
FIFA has yet to provide an update on the investigation into Mwape’s conduct.
