After weeks of heavy criticism and calls for him to resign as the President of the Spanish Football Federation (RFA), Luis Rubiales has announced he will step down.
Rubiales announced his resignation in an interview with Piers Morgan after facing an investigation by FIFA over his actions during Spain’s victory in the Women’s World Cup final where he controversially kissed midfielder Jenni Hermoso during the trophy ceremony.
Rubiales revealed: “I cannot continue my work. I spoke to my father and my daughters and they say to me, “Luis, you have to focus on your identity and continue your life.”
In the immediate aftermath of the former RFA President’s actions at the Women’s World Cup final, which also included him making rude gestures in the Spanish royal box, he insisted he will not resign in what he believed was a “social murder” against him.
Hermoso then later filed a legal complaint as she stated the kiss was non-consensual despite Rubiales’ comments that there was no “desire” nor “dominance” involved.
FIFA opened an investigation into Rubiales as it was believed he was in violation of the football organisation’s disciplinary code.
A FIFA statement read: “The FIFA disciplinary committee informed Luis Rubiales, president of the RFEF, today that it is opening disciplinary proceedings against him based on the events that occurred during the final of the FIFA Women’s World Cup on 20th August, 2023.
“The events may constitute violations of article 13 paragraphs one and two of the FIFA Disciplinary Code. The FIFA disciplinary committee will only provide further information on these disciplinary proceedings once it has issued a final decision on the matter.
“FIFA reiterates its unwavering commitment to respecting the integrity of all individuals and strongly condemns any behaviour to the contrary.”
Rubiales was widely condemned over his actions and his persistence on remaining RFA President overshadowed Spain’s World Cup triumph in the weeks following the tournament.
