Criticism has been directed towards Luis Rubiales, the president of the Spanish soccer federation, for his inappropriate behavior during Spain’s 1-0 victory over England in the women’s soccer final in Sydney, Australia. Rubiales was seen grabbing his crotch and kissing Spain player Jenni Hermoso on the lips during the medal ceremony, with 16-year-old Princess Infanta Sofía standing nearby. The Spanish government and the soccer world have condemned Rubiales’s actions, with FIFPRO, the world players’ union, calling the kiss “deeply lamentable.” Spanish government equality minister Irene Montero labeled it as a form of sexual violence and emphasized the need to not normalize such behavior. The incident has raised concerns given the sport’s history of sexual misconduct allegations by male soccer presidents and coaches against female players. The Spanish soccer federation released a statement on behalf of Hermoso, defending Rubiales’s behavior as a spontaneous gesture of affection and gratitude. FIFPRO, however, expressed disappointment and stated that physical gestures towards players without consent are inappropriate and unacceptable. Rubiales’s actions have also drawn attention due to his role as a UEFA vice president and his involvement in securing hosting rights for the men’s World Cup in 2030. Spain is currently leading a joint bid for the tournament and is expected to be the frontrunner. UEFA and FIFA have yet to respond to the criticism of Rubiales’s conduct.
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