FIFA sends a message. The major body of world football has suspended the former president of the Spanish federation, Luis Rubiales, for three years, excluding him from “any activity linked to football at national and international level”. This suspension comes in the context of the forced kiss sent by Rubiales during the world coronation of the Spanish women’s team, the International Football Federation announced on Monday.
Rubiales, who was provisionally suspended by FIFA for a period of 90 days, was at the center of a huge controversy after having surprised the Spanish player Jenni Hermoso on the lips during the trophy presentation at the end of the 2023 World Cup final at the end of August. Luis Rubiales has the possibility “to appeal to the Fifa Appeals Commission”, specified the International Federation.
The RFEF has dismissed several executives
Under the pressure of the scandal, the former strongman of Spanish football, who always claimed that this kiss was consensual, ended up resigning. Charged with “sexual assault” by the Spanish courts, he is prohibited from approaching within 200 meters of the player.
The scandal, which sparked international indignation, also led the Spanish Federation (RFEF) to dismiss several of its executives, including the coach of the women’s national team Jorge Vilda, close to Luis Rubiales, replaced by Montse Tomé.