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The Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) has issued a formal apology for the ‘completely inappropriate’ conduct of President Luis Rubiales, who kissed Jenni Hermoso on the lips following Spain’s Women’s World Cup victory over England.
Rubiales has faced severe criticism for his actions in the aftermath of Spain’s historic triumph when Hermoso received her winners’ medal, sparking outrage in the footballing world.
FIFA has already suspended him for three months, while they are pushing for a 15-year ban from all football. Regional Spanish presidents are also urging his resignation.
Now, the RFEF has released a strongly worded statement, led by interim chief Pedro Rocha, describing the incident as ’embarrassing’ and one that has ‘stained the reputation of our sport’.
The statement reads: ‘The Royal Spanish Football Federation, represented by its President, Mr. Pedro Rocha, deems it necessary to offer its sincerest apologies for the entirely unacceptable behavior of its highest institutional representative during the final of the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 and the subsequent moments.
‘Spanish society has long been an exemplar of tolerance and civility, in all spheres of life, both social and political, as well as in the realm of sportsmanship, a reputation it has upheld for decades in all sporting events.
‘The recent actions of Mr. Luis Rubiales have tarnished the nobility and international prestige of our society and our sport. The damage inflicted upon Spanish football, Spanish sport, Spanish society, and the values of football and sportsmanship as a whole has been substantial.
‘The RFEF wishes to extend its profound regret to society at large and to the entire world of football for this regrettable incident, which has blemished our national team, our football, and our society.
‘We deeply regret the harm caused and, therefore, we request the most sincere apologies and a resolute commitment to ensuring that such incidents never recur.’
‘FIFA, as the global governing body of football, and the Spanish sports authorities have taken immediate and appropriate measures, initiating disciplinary proceedings against Mr. Rubiales. In FIFA’s case, they have promptly suspended him from his duties as president of the RFEF,’ the statement further adds.
‘We are particularly distressed and embarrassed by the additional suffering and turmoil this incident has brought about. Mr. Rubiales’ actions do not reflect the values upheld by the Spanish Federation, nor the values of Spanish society at large. His actions are solely and entirely his responsibility, before society, sports bodies, and, if necessary, the courts.
‘We regret that this incident has disrupted what should have been a continuous celebration of football for both our national team and England’s Lionesses, who proved to be exceptional opponents in a thrilling final.’
Jenni Hermoso has since stated that the kiss was not consensual, leading to dozens of Spanish players going on strike, and almost all coaching staff resigning in protest.
In Spain, the Sports Administrative Tribunal (TAD) has opened a case against the 46-year-old, though it is classified as ‘serious’ rather than ‘very serious’ misconduct.
While the investigation is ongoing, Rubiales cannot be suspended. However, Sports and Culture Minister Miquel Iceta criticized the president for ‘abusing his authority’ and damaging the sport’s image.
In response, Rubiales asserted, ‘I am a victim of an unprecedented political and media witch-hunt. I have been deliberately marginalized. Nonetheless, I have provided all the pertinent evidence that substantiates the facts. This evidence will transcend opinions and clear my name.’
He also claimed that he was ‘advancing the feminist cause’ and that his case would be significant for ‘real victims of aggression.’
Rubiales has already faced condemnation from several voices, including Spain manager Luis de la Fuente, who initially supported him before apologizing and deeming his support ‘indefensible.’
