Spanish Soccer Federation Presidents Call for Resignation of Suspended President Luis Rubiales
The presidents of Spain’s regional soccer federations have demanded the resignation of Luis Rubiales, the suspended president of the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), following an emergency meeting. Rubiales was suspended by FIFA, the world’s governing soccer body, after he forcibly kissed a female player during the women’s team’s World Cup victory celebrations.
In a statement released on Monday, the RFEF said, “After the recent events and the unacceptable behaviors that have seriously damaged the image of Spanish football, the presidents request that, immediately, Mr. Luis Rubiales submits his resignation as president of the RFEF.” All 19 regional presidents are unanimously supporting Pedro Rocha, the interim RFEF president, to lead a new stage of dialogue and reconciliation with all football institutions.
The regional presidents also called for a wholesale restructuring process in strategic positions of the Federation to bring in new management in Spanish football. Alongside the pressure to resign, Rubiales is also facing an investigation that could result in sexual aggression charges from Spanish prosecutors.
In a show of support for Rubiales, his mother, Ángeles Béjar, locked herself in a church and began a hunger strike to protest the “inhumane, bloodthirsty hunt” against her son. She vowed to remain in the church in Motril, near Granada, indefinitely until justice is served.
The controversy surrounding Rubiales began when he kissed 33-year-old attacker Hermoso on the lips after Spain won its first Women’s World Cup title against England. Rubiales claimed the kiss was consensual, but Hermoso stated that she did not give her permission and felt violated.
Despite mounting criticism and calls for his resignation, Rubiales refused to step down and vowed to “fight to the end.” This stance prompted heavy criticism from teams, players, politicians, union officials, and even the United Nations. The United Nations Secretary General’s spokesperson, Stephane Dujarric, highlighted the issue of sexism in sports and called for Spanish authorities to address it.
FIFA suspended Rubiales from all football-related activities for 90 days while disciplinary proceedings are underway. In response to Rubiales’ refusal to resign, RFEF vice president Rafael del Amo and 11 members of the Spanish national women’s soccer program have resigned. Hermoso and
What steps can the RFEF take to address the fallout from Rubiales’ actions and rebuild its reputation
Reputation of our federation, the presidents of the regional soccer federations have unanimously agreed to demand the immediate resignation of Luis Rubiales as president of the RFEF.”
The incident in question occurred during the women’s team’s celebration after winning the World Cup. Rubiales was seen forcibly kissing one of the players, which was captured on camera and quickly circulated on social media. The incident sparked outrage and criticism from players, fans, and the wider soccer community, leading to FIFA taking action.
Rubiales was subsequently suspended by FIFA pending an investigation into the matter. The suspension has left the RFEF in a state of uncertainty and lacking leadership, prompting the regional presidents to call for his resignation.
The statement released by the RFEF also expressed their commitment to promoting a safe and inclusive environment for all participants in Spanish soccer. They emphasized the need for a president who upholds these values and acts as a role model for players and fans alike.
The call for Rubiales’ resignation reflects the widespread condemnation of his actions, as well as a desire for accountability and a change in leadership. The regional presidents hope that their demand will send a clear message about the seriousness of the issue and the need for the RFEF to address it promptly.
It remains to be seen how Rubiales will respond to the demand for his resignation. However, it is evident that his actions have had a significant impact not only on his own position but also on the reputation of the RFEF.
I support this call for resignation. The suspension has raised serious questions about Rubiales’ leadership and decision-making abilities.