FIFA Slaps Three-Year Ban on Rubiales for World Cup Misconduct
The FIFA has handed a three-year ban to former Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) President Luis Rubiales for "all football-related activities" following allegations of inappropriate behavior during the Women's World Cup final in August 2023. This decision, revealed on a Wednesday, came amid claims of unacceptable conduct and unwarranted touching.
According to Debbie Hewitt, who stood by Rubiales during the trophy ceremony, his tone was inappropriate, too aggressive, and unacceptable when FA officials asked him not to move to a more prominent position. These claims include Rubiales allegedly grabbing Laura Coombs' face, forcefully kissing her, and then assaulting West Bronze's face.
Hewitt pointed out that rubiales' actions made her personally uncomfortable, with his dubious greetings and patting the English players' backsides. She also observed that Rubiales kissed Spanish player Jenni Hermoso forcefully, which shocked her as she was aware the act was not consensual.
Hewitt condemned Rubiales' aggressive and outdated behavior, asserting it was inappropriate and out of place in today's world. Rubiales, however, described the act as consensual, a claim Hermoso denies, as she did not give consent and was treated disrespectfully.
In his reply, Rubiales called Hewitt's description of him as a pervert "disgusting," dismissing her accusations as lies and expressing ignorance about the situation. However, FIFA rejected Rubiales' viewpoint and stood by Hewitt's observations.
Norwegian lawyer Lena Salum-Kolstad, appointed by FIFA to investigate the claims, found enough evidence to support Hewitt's allegations. However, Rubiales refused to apologize, only admitting that "it shouldn't have happened."
The FIFA Disciplinary Committee called Rubiales' conduct "unacceptable and inexcusable," adding that his actions negatively impacted the FIFA Women's World Cup and women's football as a whole.
Currently under investigation by the Spanish authorities for sexual assault and coercion, Rubiales resigned in September 2023, briefly resisting the pressure to quit. Following his court appearance in August 2024, Spanish prosecutors stated that he had answered all the judge's questions and dismissed the accusations.
In his public statement, Rubiales announced his intention to appeal the FIFA's decision, hoping the judicial process will bring justice and the truth to light.
Sources:
- CNN
- The Daily Banter
- BBC Sport
Additional Insights:
The three-year ban on Rubiales is just one of the legal and disciplinary consequences he faced after multiple allegations of inappropriate behavior, including sexual assault, coercion, and unwarranted touching of England and Spanish football players. This includes a €10,000 fine, a one-year ban from going within 200 meters of Jenni Hermoso, and a one-year ban from communicating with her.
While Rubiales' controversial past and behavior have garnered widespread media attention, it's important to remember that he remains a prominent figure in Spanish football and had previously served as the president of FC Sevilla. Despite the ongoing investigation and ban, Rubiales' supporters continue to express their loyalty and hope for his eventual return to football.
In the meantime, the FIFA Disciplinary Committee has made it clear that there will be no tolerance for inappropriate and harmful behavior, emphasizing the need for professionalism, respect, and adherence to the rules during sports events. This will set the standard for future World Cups and ensure a safer and respectful environment for all participants.
