Spain women's football team coach Jorge Vilda fired amid RFEF president Luis Rubiales kiss scandal

Jorge Vilda, who guided Spain's women's football team to a historic World Cup victory against England, has been dismissed from his position.

SportsTak

• Tue • 05 Sep 2023

Highlights:

Jorge Vilda has been dismissed from his position as coach of Spain's women's football team.This high-profile firing comes in the wake of a controversy involving RFEF President Luis Rubiales.

Jorge Vilda, who guided Spain's women's football team to a historic World Cup victory against England, has been dismissed from his position. This high-profile firing comes in the wake of a controversy involving RFEF President Luis Rubiales, who is under suspension by FIFA for an allegedly non-consensual kiss during the team's World Cup celebrations.

The issue has sparked a national debate on women's rights and sexism in sports, gaining widespread attention. Vilda's contract was terminated by a newly-formed board following Rubiales' suspension, putting an end to what has become an unsettling chapter for Spanish women's football.

Vilda faced increased scrutiny after applauding Rubiales' divisive speech at an RFEF assembly. Rubiales himself was widely criticized for kissing player Jenni Hermoso on the lips after Spain defeated England 1-0 in the World Cup final on August 20. Despite the backlash, Rubiales had offered Vilda a new four-year contract valued at €500,000 (£429,000) per year. However, Vilda later issued a statement distancing himself from Rubiales' actions but stopped short of demanding his resignation.

The Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) issued an apology earlier this week, stating that they are "embarrassed" by Rubiales' actions, which they admit have caused "enormous damage" and do not reflect the federation's values.

Controversy is not new for Vilda; he had been a contentious figure since last year when 15 players revolted against him. The players cited his ineffective coaching strategies and demanded conditions on par with the men's team. While some of their demands were met, the majority of these players were subsequently removed from the squad.

This latest development adds another layer to the complex challenges facing women's football in Spain. As the search for a new coach begins, the RFEF must address these internal issues to rebuild trust and move forward.