In a significant development, FIFA, the global governing body of football, has taken action regarding the future of Luis Rubiales, the President of the Spanish Football Association (RFEF), following a controversial incident involving a kiss with football star Jenni Hermoso.
FIFA issued an official statement on its website, announcing the immediate suspension of Luis Rubiales due to the aforementioned kissing incident with Jenni Hermoso. The decision was made by Jorge Ivan Palacio, the Chairman of the FIFA Disciplinary Committee, under the authority granted by Article 51 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code (FDC). This provisional suspension applies to all football-related activities at both national and international levels.
The suspension, effective immediately, will last for an initial period of 90 days, pending the outcome of disciplinary proceedings initiated against Mr. Luis Rubiales on Thursday, August 24.
Despite facing criticism for his actions, Luis Rubiales declared in a statement on Friday that he would not resign from his position as the head of the Spanish Football Association. The controversy stemmed from Rubiales kissing Hermoso on the lips during Spain’s celebration of their Women’s World Cup victory.
FIFA reiterated its commitment to upholding the integrity of all individuals and strongly condemned any behavior to the contrary in its statement.
Additionally, Rubiales’ celebratory actions, which included kissing other Spanish football stars and making inappropriate gestures in front of Queen Letizia of Spain and her daughter, have sparked widespread debate. Contrary to expectations of his resignation, Rubiales emphatically declared, “I will not resign” during a press conference.
As part of his sanctions, Rubiales has been directed to refrain from contacting, or attempting to contact, the professional player of the Spanish national football team, Ms. Jennifer Hermoso, or her close associates, either directly or through third parties.