In a stunning turn of events, Luis Rubiales, the President of the Spanish Football Federation, has tendered his resignation following a highly publicised kissing incident involving Spain forward Jenni Hermoso during the Women’s World Cup final presentation ceremony. The controversy arose when Hermoso claimed the kiss was not consensual, prompting her to file a legal complaint.
The incident unfolded after Spain’s victory over England in the Women’s World Cup final, and it quickly garnered widespread attention and criticism. Hermoso, aged 33, expressed her discomfort with the situation, leading to a legal complaint filed last Tuesday.
Luis Rubiales, in a statement, announced his resignation from the presidency of the Spanish Football Federation. “I cannot continue my work,” he candidly revealed during an interview with Piers Morgan on a television show. Rubiales, aged 46, has also stepped down from his role as vice-president of Uefa’s executive committee, marking a significant shift in his career.
The controversy escalated further when a prosecutor lodged a formal complaint with Spain’s high court against Rubiales for allegations of sexual assault and coercion. These legal proceedings followed Hermoso’s testimony, during which she detailed her perspective on the incident.
Rubiales had previously asserted that the kiss was “mutual and consensual.” However, his claim was met with skepticism, and he was provisionally suspended by Fifa, football’s global governing body. In light of these developments, Rubiales acknowledged the reality of his situation, stating, “After the quick suspension carried out by Fifa, plus the rest of the open proceedings against me, it is evident that I will not be able to return to my position.”
While resigning from his roles, Rubiales expressed his ongoing commitment to seeking the truth and defending his reputation. He stated, “I have faith in the truth, and I will do everything in my power to prevail.” Rubiales also highlighted the toll the controversy has taken on his family and loved ones, as they faced “excessive persecution” and the spread of “many falsehoods.”
