Is Luis Rubiales suspended? Spanish football president vows to prove his innocence while 11 coaches resign after Jenni Hermoso controversy
NEW SOUTH WALES, AUSTRALIA: Spain's soccer authority figure, Luis Rubiales, has been subjected to a temporary suspension from involvement in global football events.
This punitive measure was taken subsequent to an incident in which he planted an unwarranted kiss on a player following his country's triumph in the Women's World Cup final on August 20.
Luis Rubiales should be fired. Immediately. pic.twitter.com/KZlElDHsKw
— total Barça (@totalBarca) August 20, 2023
The FIFA Disciplinary Committee released an official statement on August 26, outlining the provisional suspension of Rubiales from "all football-related activities at national and international level”.
Is Spain's soccer chief Luis Rubiales innocent?
Following his provisional suspension from the presidency of the Spanish FA, Rubiales expressed his intent to prove his innocence.
In response to this incident, nearly the entire coaching staff affiliated with Spain's women's team has resigned, citing Luis Rubiales' "unacceptable attitude" as the driving factor.
COMUNICADO OFICIAL#SEACABÓ pic.twitter.com/EB5sMlTvq2
— Blanca Romero (@BlancaRomeroM) August 26, 2023
“The undersigned, in light of the unacceptable attitude and statements made by the head of the federation, have taken the decision to resign from their positions,” the statement read in Spanish.
Does FIFA have an ethics committee?
According to FIFA, the FIFA Ethics Committee is one of FIFA's three judicial bodies, that is, the Disciplinary, Appeal and Ethics Committees.
What better way for Spain to celebrate their first ever FIFA Women's World Cup trophy than with late night Australian Macca’s! We're here for the gold medals at the golden arches ✨🍟@McDonalds pic.twitter.com/Ei06dmwlvc
— FIFA Women's World Cup (@FIFAWWC) August 20, 2023
In light of the recent unethical events, FIFA's disciplinary judge, Jorge Palacio, has taken action to uphold Jenni Hermoso's fundamental rights.
In line with this, Palacio has mandated that Luis Rubiales abstain from contacting or attempting to establish contact with Hermoso or individuals in her close circle.
Furthermore, the directive extends to the Spanish football federation, which had initially hinted at potential legal actions against Hermoso.
The federation is also bound by the order to desist from contacting Hermoso and those who are in her immediate vicinity. This measure has been introduced to safeguard her well-being and privacy.
For how long was Luis Rubiales suspended?
The initial duration of his suspension spans 90 days, pending the outcome of an inquiry initiated on August 24th.
Rubiales' predicament traces back to an incident that unfolded on August 20, following Spain's victory against England by a score of 1-0, securing the FIFA Women's World Cup.
In the aftermath of the match, during the medal presentation, Rubiales approached Spain's player, Jenni Hermoso, and gave her an unsolicited kiss on the lips. This action was captured on camera and raised significant concerns.
On August 26, a collective statement was issued by 11 coaches and technical staff members, jointly condemning Rubiales' behavior towards forward Jenni Hermoso.