RFEF Demands President Luis Rubiales Resign: The RFEF has asked its suspended president, Luis Rubiales, to step down due to his inappropriate actions during Spain’s World Cup trophy ceremony, which received global criticism. After an emergency meeting on Monday, this news came from regional leaders in the RFEF.
FIFA suspended Rubiales for 90 days for refusing to step down after kissing Jenni Hermoso without consent during the World Cup celebration. Rubiales claims the kiss was “mutual,” while Hermoso alleges she was “assaulted.”
Over 80 Spanish players, including the future World Cup-winning team in 2023, signed a statement refusing to play for the national team until Rubiales is fired. The RFEF regional leaders unanimously supported Vice President Pedro Rocha, serving as interim president after Rubiales’ FIFA suspension. They announced a “deep and imminent organic restructuring in strategic positions of the Federation” to begin a new era in Spanish football management.
Rubiales faced global criticism for making an offensive sign near Queen Letizia of Spain and 16-year-old Princess Infanta Sofia after Spain’s 1-0 victory over England in the World Cup. Despite apologizing to the royal family, Rubiales insists he did nothing wrong when he kissed Hermoso and vows to “fight until the end.”
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FIFA is investigating Rubiales’s actions as president, which have damaged Spanish soccer’s reputation. The punishments and uproar come at a tough time for Spanish soccer, dealing with internal power struggles and facing a crisis in leadership and image.
Rubiales’ mother, Ángeles Béjar, is food striking to worsen things. She vowed to remain in a Spanish church until her son’s “inhumane hounding” ends.
The RFEF committee wants immediate leadership change due to the serious situation. With attention on RFEF and Spanish football, Luis Rubiales’ future looks uncertain. Players, bodies, and fans await the next move. As the situation worsens, it questions the usefulness of leadership in popular sports, like football in Spain, with its rich history.
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