In a decisive move that could reshape Spanish football governance, the Spanish government has initiated formal proceedings against the embattled football chief, Luis Rubiales. The president of the Spanish Football Federation and vice-president of UEFA has been under intense scrutiny for his actions during and after Spain's Women's World Cup win in Sydney.
A government legal panel, specializing in sports-related issues, opened a case against Rubiales on Friday. The panel aims to determine whether he abused his power and tarnished Spain's reputation in the sporting world. Specifically, Rubiales is under fire for kissing player Jenni Hermoso without her consent and making an inappropriate victory gesture during the televised celebration, causing national and international embarrassment.
Acting Minister of Culture and Sport, Miquel Iceta, commented, "When the eyes of the world were focused on our players, his acts inflicted irreparable harm on our sport and our country." If found guilty, Rubiales could face a two-year ban from office, although the panel's decision to categorize his acts as "serious" rather than "very serious" somewhat lessens the government's immediate ability to suspend him.
Rubiales broke his silence on Friday, admitting to "evident mistakes" but insisting that the controversial kiss was "mutual, consensual, and occurred in a moment of euphoria" – a claim Hermoso vehemently denies. Rubiales claimed he has been subject to a "witch hunt" by "false feminists" and decried the media and political attacks against him not just in Spain, but internationally.
Meanwhile, the Spanish Football Federation has distanced itself from Rubiales, suspending his wages and calling on him to step down. Even Luis de la Fuente, the Spain men's coach who initially supported Rubiales, has publicly apologized for his earlier stance.
Public and official support for Hermoso is overwhelming, as echoed by figures like Spanish Olympic Committee President Alejandro Blanco and Spain women's star Aitana Bonmati. "As a society, we cannot allow the abuse of power in a working environment or disrespect," said Bonmatí during her UEFA Best Player of the Year acceptance speech.
The global spotlight is now on how Spain will handle this brewing crisis, which goes beyond football to touch on broader issues of abuse of power and sexism in sport. While FIFA's 90-day suspension still stands, the pressure on Rubiales mounts as public opinion and institutional measures turn increasingly against him. The crisis has already led to small protests against Rubiales in major Spanish cities and may serve as a catalyst for wider societal change against sexism and abuse of power in sports.
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