Luis Rubiales, the former president of the Spanish football federation, announced on Sunday that he will be stepping down from his position due to the controversy surrounding his kiss on the lips of a player during the Women’s World Cup. In an interview with the television show “Piers Morgan Uncensored,” Rubiales expressed his decision, saying, “I have decided to resign because I cannot continue with my work.” Concerned for his dignity and the well-being of his loved ones and the sport he cherishes, Rubiales acknowledged that it would be best for him to step away.
Rubiales’ kiss on Jenni Hermoso, a midfielder, during the medal ceremony after Spain’s World Cup victory in Sydney on August 20, sparked outrage around the world. In response to this incident, FIFA provisionally suspended Rubiales for 90 days, and Spanish public prosecutors filed a lawsuit against him for sexual assault and coercion.
Hermoso, who is 33 years old, lodged an official complaint with the National Court, accusing Rubiales of sexual assault. In a letter sent to the federation on Sunday evening, Rubiales also announced his resignation as a vice-president of UEFA, the governing body for European football. Citing the swift suspension implemented by FIFA and the ongoing investigations against him, Rubiales admitted that he would not be able to resume his position. He emphasized that clinging to his role would not be beneficial for the federation or Spanish football as there are influential forces obstructing his return.
Overall, this situation has prompted Rubiales to make the difficult decision to resign from his position as president of the Spanish football federation and as a vice-president of UEFA. He acknowledges the need to prioritize his dignity and the well-being of those close to him while also recognizing the negative impact his continued presence could have on the sport and those involved in it.
