Spain’s Soccer Chief Suspended by FIFA Following Kiss, Leading to Coaches Departure

Global soccer’s governing body has suspended Luis Rubiales, the head of Spain’s soccer federation, following allegations that he forcibly kissed a player during the Women’s World Cup medal ceremony. A disciplinary committee will review the case, and Rubiales will be barred from all national and international soccer-related activities for 90 days. “He fully trusts FIFA and reiterates that, in this way, he is given the opportunity to begin his defense so that the truth prevails and his complete innocence is proven,” Spain’s federation stated, as reported by NPR.

Shortly after, almost all of the team’s coaches and staff members submitted a resignation letter in response to the “unacceptable attitude and statements” made by the head of the federation. The letter, signed by 11 coaches and technical staff, highlights Rubiales’ defense of the kiss as consensual, which contradicts the player’s statement. FIFA has instructed Rubiales not to contact the player. The resignation letter also claims that the staff was forced to attend Rubiales’ speech, and expressed hurtfulness, particularly towards the female coaching staff who were seated in the front row, implying their support for Rubiales. Spain’s team has vowed not to play until Rubiales is removed from his position.

Players in Spain, including Jenni Hermoso, have welcomed Rubiales’ suspension, as they believe that issues with the treatment of female soccer players extend beyond Rubiales. Ana Crnogorcevic, who plays for FC Barcelona, expressed on social media that “this should be just the beginning… there are many more people that have to leave!!!” The Spanish sports daily Marca, featured a photo of Rubiales at the assembly with the headline, “Global Laughing Stock.” (Read more Women’s World Cup stories.)