A scandal involving Luis Rubiales, president of the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), has rocked the football world. The incident arises from a non-consensual kiss with Spanish footballer Jenni Hermoso, which has prompted significant calls for Rubiales’ resignation and perhaps a potential FIFA 15-year penalty. This article delves into the unfolding drama and its implications for Spanish football.
The Incident
The controversy erupted after Spain’s Women’s World Cup final victory, where Rubiales kissed Hermoso on the lips during the celebration. Hermoso later asserted that the kiss was not consensual, causing uproar and prompting Spanish authorities to launch a preliminary investigation into whether the incident constituted sexual assault.
The incident has led to public protests, particularly from feminist groups who gathered in Madrid chanting, “It’s not a kiss, it is aggression.” The RFEF’s regional leaders have unanimously called for Rubiales to resign immediately, stating that his actions have “seriously damaged the image of Spanish football.”
Legal Repercussions
FIFA has temporarily suspended Rubiales and is requesting a 15-year term, the maximum allowed per their laws. This decision might have far-reaching consequences, including the exclusion of Spanish teams from international championships. Prosecutors in Spain have also launched investigations, giving Hermoso 15 days to file a formal complaint.
Family Drama
In a bizarre twist, Rubiales’ mother, Angeles Bejar, has locked herself in a church and gone on a hunger strike to protest the “inhuman hunt” against her son. This act has added another layer of complexity to an already convoluted situation.
Institutional Crisis
The RFEF is in the grip of an institutional crisis, with interim RFEF president Pedro Rocha calling for “deep and imminent organisational restructuring.” The Spanish government has also asked for Rubiales’ suspension, indicating a lack of trust at the highest levels.
Spanish Football’s “Me Too” Moment
The episode has been dubbed a “Me Too” moment in Spanish football, showing systematic sexism and male chauvinism. Yolanda Diaz, Spain’s interim labour minister, said the incident revealed “the worst of Spanish society” and asked for improved protection for victims of sexual harassment and violence.
So…
The Luis Rubiales scandal has exposed deep-seated issues within Spanish football and society at large. With legal proceedings underway and FIFA’s disciplinary actions looming, the future of Rubiales and the Spanish Football Federation hangs in the balance. Regardless of the outcome, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for cultural and institutional change.
