The Soccer Federation of Spain is scheduled to convene an immediate meeting on Monday in light of the contentious situation surrounding its president, Luis Rubiales. Rubiales is currently confronted with a FIFA suspension and extensive backlash due to accusations of bestowing an unwelcome kiss on the lips of a player after Spain's triumph in the Women's World Cup.
Notwithstanding the requests for his resignation voiced by players, coaches, and governmental officials, Rubiales has declined to vacate his position, asserting that the kiss was mutually agreed upon. In light of Rubiales' suspension by FIFA, the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) has summoned an extraordinary and urgent assembly to evaluate the circumstances.
FIFA has commenced disciplinary proceedings against Rubiales and temporarily suspended him for a duration of three months from participation in any national and international soccer-related engagements during an ongoing investigation. Rubiales, nevertheless, asserts his innocence and aims to employ the investigation process as a means to substantiate his claims.
Upon his election as president of RFEF in 2018, Rubiales pledged to undertake comprehensive modernization efforts, enhance transparency, and bolster revenue generation. However, it is not within the direct powers of the Spanish government to unilaterally terminate Rubiales' presidency. Instead, the government is actively pursuing legal measures to potentially suspend his position, seeking recourse through a sports tribunal.
This incident has ignited an outcry in a nation where gender concerns have assumed great importance. Over the past years, there have been widespread protests condemning sexual abuse and violence, with the public bearing witness to extensive demonstrations. On Monday, the Minister of Labor, Yolanda Díaz, plans to convene a meeting with delegates from the women's players' union and the Association of Spanish Footballers, aiming to ensure the establishment of an environment within the football sector that is secure and equitable.
A number of notable individuals, such as the acting budget minister Maria Jesus Montero, have censured Rubiales' conduct and conveyed their conviction that he should no longer assume leadership over Spanish soccer. There has been immense backing for player Jenni Hermoso, who asserted that she did not provide consent for the kiss and experienced victimization. In both matches and protests, players and fans have displayed unity with Hermoso through the display of banners, wristbands, and messages of support.
In light of Rubiales' ongoing tenure, the entire Women's World Cup-winning team, comprising all 23 members, including Hermoso, have announced their collective decision to abstain from engaging in any future international matches for as long as he retains his position of authority. Their forthcoming fixture, scheduled against Sweden in the Nations League, is slated to take place on September 22.
The incident has also garnered attention globally. Lise Klaveness, the leader of Norway's football federation, stressed that the path towards embracing inclusivity, diversity, and gender equality in football is still ongoing. She conveyed her disappointment that the recognition of the Spanish team's accomplishments had been eclipsed by this contentious matter.
Given the condemnation of Rubiales' conduct by numerous influential individuals, organizations, and supporters, it is widely agreed that such actions have an adverse effect on Spain's international reputation, both within the realm of sports and in society at large. Nevertheless, Victor Francos, the leader of the National Sports Council, maintains the view that this incident will not impede Spain's collaborative endeavor with Portugal and Morocco to host the 2030 World Cup.