UEFA rejected the Spanish FA’s request to expel La Liga teams over the Luis Rubiales controversy.
On Friday, the RFEF sent UEFA a letter requesting that they be expelled from the governing body due to government involvement in the Luis Rubiales controversy in the wake of the president kissing Jenni Hermoso after the World Cup final. The incident caused a significant stir in the Spanish football community and beyond.
Rubiales, who has been suspended by FIFA over the incident, has been under intense scrutiny and criticism. Hermoso, a prominent player herself, clarified that she did not consent to the kiss, leading to further outrage and a criminal investigation being initiated against the president. The situation has put the Spanish FA in a difficult position, as they seek resolution and accountability for the actions of their president.
In response to the Spanish FA’s request for expulsion, the Spanish government has also become involved. They have asked Spain’s Sports Tribunal (TAD) to suspend Rubiales, believing that his actions have breached UEFA rules on government interference in national footballing governing bodies. This has added another layer of complexity to an already controversial situation.
The RFEF, led by Rubiales, seemingly attempted to use the potential ejection of Spanish teams from prestigious international tournaments, such as the Champions League, Europa League, and Europa Conference League, as a form of leverage against the government. This move was seen as an attempt to cling to power and avoid consequences for Rubiales’ actions. However, their request has been met with resistance.
According to reports, UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin has swiftly rejected the Spanish FA’s request for expulsion, symbolically turning his back on Rubiales, who happens to be UEFA’s vice-president. This decision sends a clear message that UEFA is committed to upholding principles of fairness and maintaining the integrity of football governance.
Echoing UEFA’s stance, Victor Francos, president of Spain’s Higher Sports Council (CSD), has assured Spanish clubs that the government is “acting within the regulations as they stand.” He has also affirmed that “there is no risk to participation in any of the categories,” providing reassurance to teams and fans who may have been concerned about potential repercussions.
As the situation continues to unfold, the Spanish football community awaits further developments and seeks a resolution that ensures accountability, upholds the values of fair play, and allows the focus to return to the thrilling action on the pitch. It remains to be seen how the Luis Rubiales controversy will ultimately impact Spanish football, but it serves as a reminder of the importance of ethical conduct and maintaining the independence of football governing bodies.
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