FIFA slaps 3-year ban on ex-Spanish FA chief over World Cup kiss scandal - Spotify Vibes

FIFA bans former Spanish FA president for three years over World Cup kiss scandal

Luis Rubiales, the former president of the Spanish Football Association (RFEF), has been banned from all football-related activities for three years by FIFA's Disciplinary Committee, world soccer's ruling body announced on Monday. The suspension was imposed following the allegedly non-consensual kiss Rubiales gave to Spain player Jenni Hermoso after this year's Women's World Cup final in which Spain beat England.

The incident, which took place on August 20, 2023, sparked outrage in Spain and around the world, as it was seen as a sexist and disrespectful gesture that overshadowed what was a historic achievement for Spanish women's soccer. Hermoso, who scored the only goal of the match, later filed a complaint against Rubiales, stating he and his entourage had issued a statement without her approval quoting her as saying the kiss was a "mutual, totally spontaneous gesture".

Rubiales, 46, initially refused to resign from his position as RFEF president, despite pressure from players, politicians and women's groups. He also apologized in a video statement, saying he did not intend to offend anyone and that he was overcome by emotion. However, he eventually stepped down in September, saying his position had become untenable.

FIFA launched an investigation into Rubiales' conduct and found him guilty of breaching article 13 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, which states that "anyone who offends the dignity or integrity of a country, a person or group of people through contemptuous, discriminatory or denigratory words or actions (by any means whatsoever) will be sanctioned". FIFA also fined Rubiales 100,000 Swiss francs ($108,000).

Rubiales has the right to appeal against the decision to the FIFA Appeal Committee. His lawyers told Reuters they would not be commenting on the decision.

Meanwhile, Spanish authorities have launched a criminal investigation against Rubiales for kissing Hermoso on the lips. Spanish prosecutors have formally accused Rubiales of sexual assault and coercion. If convicted, he could face up to five years in prison.

Hermoso has received widespread support from her teammates and fans. She has also been praised for her courage and professionalism in speaking out against Rubiales. She said in a statement with FUTPRO, a Spanish players' union, that she hoped her case would help prevent similar acts from happening in the future.

"We are working to ensure that acts such as those we have seen never go unpunished," she said. "We want to make it clear that this is not acceptable in any context, especially not in a sport that is fighting for equality and respect."

Conclusion: 

The World Cup kiss scandal involving former Spanish FA president Luis Rubiales and Spain player Jenni Hermoso has resulted in a three-year ban from FIFA and a criminal investigation by Spanish authorities. Rubiales, who resigned from his post in September, has been fined 100,000 Swiss francs and accused of sexual assault and coercion. Hermoso, who scored the winning goal in the final against England, has been hailed as a hero and a role model for speaking out against Rubiales' conduct.

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