The president of the governing body of Spanish soccer, Luis Rubiales has taken a public stance after receiving flak for his indecent behavior towards Spanish striker Jennifer Hermoso during the FIFA Women’s World Cup presentation ceremony.
Rubiales has openly acknowledged his mistake and extended his apologies for the action of kissing Hermoso on the lips. In a video released by the Spanish FA, Rubiales admitted, “There is something I regret and that is what happened between me and a player, a player with whom I have a magnificent relationship, as I do with others.”
He continued, “I have to admit I made a mistake because, in a moment of maximum euphoria, without any bad intentions or bad faith on either side, what happened, happened. It was very spontaneous, without any bad faith from any party, I was probably wrong.”
🇪🇸 | ⚽️ ÚLTIMA HORA: Exigen la renuncia de Luis Rubiales, presidente de la RFEF, por beso inapropiado a la futbolista Jennifer Hermoso y gesto controvertido en presencia de la Reina y la FIFA.
Rubiales se ha disculpado tras el incidente: “Probablemente me equivoqué”. Asegura que… pic.twitter.com/y6nzmRRrb0
— UHN Plus (@UHN_Plus) August 21, 2023
The incident transpired during the celebratory presentation ceremony, a platform designed to honor the victorious Spain Women’s team following their resounding triumph in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, where they bested England in the final.
As the members of the triumphant Spanish team made their way to receive their well-deserved golden medals, their paths converged with Luis Rubiales.
🚨💣 A scandal explodes in Spain because the president of the Spanish football federation, Luis Rubiales, kissed Jenni Hermoso, striker of Spain. [@RMCsport] pic.twitter.com/zdKBBxyRXR
— Football Talk (@FootballTalkHQ) August 20, 2023
Upon encountering Jennifer Hermoso, Rubiales embraced her with an unmistakable force, temporarily lifting her off the ground. In subsequent moments, a brief exchange unfolded between them, and an eyebrow-raising gesture ensued—Rubiales planted a kiss on Hermoso’s lips while his hands settled on the back of her head.
After the incident, Jennifer Hermoso candidly acknowledged her feelings about the incident, revealing that she did not find the experience enjoyable.
Fans demand the resignation of Luis Rubiales, President of the RFEF
The aftermath of Luis Rubiales’ apology serves as an intriguing chapter in his evolving narrative. The President of the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) has encountered a series of challenges to his leadership, a trend that has escalated since 2022.
Rubiales’ record has come under scrutiny for multiple instances, ranging from his perceived inactivity in addressing racist incidents involving Vinicius Jr. to allegations of collusion with Gerard Pique in fraudulent dealings. In response to mounting pressure, Rubiales has been compelled to clarify his position on numerous occasions.
Gerard Piqué secretly agreed a pact with Spanish FA president Luis Rubiales to bring the Spanish SuperCup to Saudi Arabia, per @elconfidencial.
Pique was assured of €6 million from the €24 million deal. pic.twitter.com/FH31sPmbEL
— Zach Lowy (@ZachLowy) April 18, 2022
The most recent incident seemed to be the proverbial last straw, as it triggered an unprecedented public outcry. The Spanish populace, particularly active on social media platforms, has vehemently voiced its demand for Rubiales’ resignation.
While the La Liga president, Javier Tebas, has faced his own challenges stemming from the pandemic’s repercussions, particularly in interactions with football powerhouses like Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Atletico Madrid, the spotlight has also turned to Rubiales’ conduct during the same period.
Xavi: “I would tell Javier Tebas that his product is a shame.” pic.twitter.com/FcMQ2E2eQm
— Barça Universal (@BarcaUniversal) August 13, 2023
Calls for a substantial transformation at the helm of Spanish soccer have gained momentum. The unfolding question is whether this recent incident will serve as a catalyst for significant change within the Spanish football landscape.