According to a statement released by FIFA on its official website, Luis Rubiales has been suspended with immediate effect following an incident involving a kiss with Jenni Hermoso.
The incident occurred during the celebration of Spain’s victory in the Women’s World Cup. Rubiales, who is the chairman of the Spanish Football Association, was seen kissing Hermoso on the lips as part of the celebration.
In response to this incident, the chairman of the FIFA Disciplinary Committee, Jorge Ivan Palacio from Colombia, exercised the authority granted by Article 51 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code (FDC). As a result, Rubiales has been provisionally suspended from all football-related activities at both national and international levels.
” This suspension, which will be effective as of today,the 24th August 2023 is for an initial period of 90 days, pending the disciplinary proceedings,” FIFA added.
Despite facing criticism for the incident and the subsequent suspension, Rubiales expressed his determination not to resign from his position as the head of the Spanish Football Association.
As a part of the sanctions imposed on Rubiales, he has been instructed to avoid contacting or attempting to contact Jenni Hermoso. This instruction also extends to refraining from reaching out to individuals in her close environment.
Furthermore, the football world at large expressed disappointment over the alleged behaviour,one of the notable people who spoke out is the Barcelona Fc manager Xavi Hernandez . He posted on social media: “I want to give my unconditional support to Jennifer Hermoso and the players. I condemn the behaviour of the president of the Spanish Football Association.”
In addition to his post as Spanish FA president, Luis Rubiales is also a member of the powerful executive committee of European football’s governing body, UEFA.
Even if Rubiales is eventually removed from his position with the Spanish FA, there is a possibility that he could remain on UEFA’S executive committee until his run is due to end in 2027. UEFA has offered no public comment about the present situation, but speaking to people who are part of the organisation, there is incredulity from some that Rubiales has not resigned.
