Despite the tumult following the FIFA Women's World Cup final kiss controversy, Luis Rubiales has resolutely chosen not to vacate his role as the president of the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF). Anticipations of Rubiales tendering his resignation were shattered when, on August 25, he accused the media and certain officials of attempting a 'social assassination' against him.
The Rubiales controversy emerged when he was captured kissing Jenni Hermoso, a pivotal figure in Spain's football scene, on the lips as he presented the Spanish women's squad their medals. This was after their hard-fought 1-0 triumph against England in the final. The act sent shockwaves both domestically and internationally, with numerous voices including those of government officials echoing the sentiment for Rubiales' resignation.
The situation turned graver when FIFA launched a formal investigation into Rubiales' conduct. Adding to the mounting pressure, Hermoso publicly opined that such unauthorised gestures 'should never go unpunished.'
Initially dismissing his detractors as 'idiots,' Rubiales later released a video extending an apology. However, the act was perceived as inadequate by many, who felt that the weight of the Rubiales Jenni Hermoso kiss controversy necessitated stronger action.
A former player who concluded his career in 2009 with Hamilton Academical in Scotland, Rubiales has had a storied journey within Spanish football. After spells at various lower-league clubs in Spain, Rubiales transitioned into an administrative role. By 2010, he was helming the Association of Spanish Footballers (AFE), a position he retained until setting his sights on the Spanish FA president title in 2017. His election to the presidency came in May this year.
Rubiales' leadership was expected to bring reform, particularly in the wake of the arrest of the former president, Angel Maria Villar, on graft allegations. Rubiales pledged to revamp the federation's structure, boost its revenue, and infuse greater transparency. However, his recent actions have cast a shadow over his tenure.
