FIFA has initiated a disciplinary case against Luis Rubiales, the president of the Spanish soccer federation, over his non-consensual kiss to player Jenni Hermoso during the Women’s World Cup final. The governing body’s disciplinary committee will evaluate whether Rubiales violated FIFA’s code of conduct and brought the sport and organization into disrepute. Rubiales kissed Hermoso on the lips without her consent during the trophy and medal ceremony following Spain’s victory over England in Sydney.
The incident occurred moments after Rubiales made a victory gesture by grabbing his crotch in the presence of Queen Letizia of Spain and Princess Sofía. Hermoso expressed her dissatisfaction with the kiss, and the national players’ union, which Rubiales previously led, called for appropriate action to be taken against him.
Spanish government equality minister Irene Montero described the kiss as a form of sexual violence that women experience daily and emphasized the need to reject such behavior. FIFA responded by reaffirming its commitment to respecting individuals’ integrity and condemning any contrary behavior by Rubiales. The soccer body, however, did not specify which specific actions are being investigated.
Víctor Francos, Spain’s secretary of state for sports, criticized Rubiales’ gesture, stating that it cannot be defended. FIFA has not provided a timeline for its ruling, but its disciplinary judges have the authority to impose sanctions ranging from warnings and fines to sport suspensions.
This incident comes after the Spain women’s squad faced issues with their coach Jorge Vilda last year, prompting near-mutiny within the team. The FIFA disciplinary panel, led by Colombian lawyer Jorge Palacio, will likely consist of three members, including three women from England, Mexico, and Thailand.
Rubiales, who serves as a vice president of UEFA, is yet to receive a statement from UEFA president Aleksander Čeferin regarding his conduct. Rubiales is scheduled to host UEFA’s annual congress in Madrid in February. The Spanish soccer federation will hold an emergency meeting on Friday to address the controversy, and it remains uncertain whether they will support Rubiales or succumb to pressure from Spanish government and soccer officials to remove him.
Rubiales, who previously led the Spanish players’ union, is currently leading the UEFA-backed bid for Spain to host the men’s World Cup in 2030. However, his behavior has damaged the country’s image as it seeks support for its bid. FIFA has postponed the 2030 bid contest, which is now targeted for late next year. Spain’s bid is favored over a South American plan involving Argentina, Chile, Paraguay, and Uruguay, the host of the inaugural 1930 World Cup.
Ultimately, Rubiales’ actions and their consequences may affect Spain’s chances of winning the bid to host the World Cup, with FIFA expected to make a decision in the near future.
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