Luis Rubiales has resigned from his position as the Spanish FA chief after he kissed Jennifer Hermoso following Spain’s Women’s World Cup final victory over England. The FIFA had already suspended Rubiales prior to his resignation. In addition, Spain manager Jorge Vilda has also been fired following this incident, as interim president Pedro Rocha expressed his disappointment and shame.
Luis Rubiales resigns as Spain’s FA president amidst controversy over kissing player Jenni Hermoso.
During the trophy presentation after Spain’s World Cup final win against England, Rubiales kissed the midfielder on the lips. However, Hermoso has stated that the kiss was not consensual.
FIFA has suspended Rubiales and an investigation is underway into his behavior. Additionally, Hermoso has filed a complaint with Spain’s high court regarding this matter.
Rubiales, despite facing public backlash, has refused to step down from his position. He maintains that the controversial kiss was consensual and stands by his decision.
Rubiales confirmed in an interview with Piers Morgan that he will be stepping down from his position, stating that he cannot continue his work.
A resignation has been submitted by a person to the acting president of the Spanish federation.
“I have presented my resignation from the position of president of the RFEF. After the suspension by FIFA, plus the rest of the procedures opened against me, it is evident that I will not be able to return to my position.”
Speaking to Morgan, Rubiales added: “My father, my daughters, I spoke with them…and some friends very close to me, and they say to me ‘Luis, now you have to focus on your dignity and to continue your life.’
“Because if you know probably you are going to damage people you love, and the sport you love…in this situation now, (it is) the thing I have to do.”
His resignation follows the sacking of Spain manager Jorge Vilda on Tuesday.
FIFA has provisionally banned Rubiales from all football activity for 90 days while investigating his conduct at the final.
Hermoso’s legal complaint against Rubiales could lead to potential criminal charges. If found guilty of sexual assault, Rubiales could face a fine or a prison sentence ranging from one to four years, in accordance with a sexual consent law passed last year.
Rubiales may have committed an act of coercion by pressuring Hermoso to defend him after the scandal.
Prosecutors are requesting that Rubiales provide preliminary testimony before a court.
If the National Court judge agrees to hear the case, it will initiate a formal court investigation that will culminate in a recommendation for the case to either be dismissed or proceed to trial.
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