In the latest round of controversy surrounding former Spanish soccer association president Luis Rubiales (46), allegations have emerged regarding his behavior towards English female footballers during the 2023 Women's World Cup award ceremony. Rather than maintaining a friendly gesture, Rubiales is accused of going overboard when he kissed England player Lucy Bronze (32) "on the face."
This isn't the first time Rubiales has been involved in controversy following athletic events. After Spain's defeat in the World Cup final against England (1:0), his post-match actions made headlines worldwide. He caused an uproar by kissing the newly crowned Spanish world champion Hermoso (33) on the mouth. Despite international outcry, Rubiales displayed a lack of understanding in the aftermath. In October, he was handed a three-year ban by FIFA for violating Article 13 of their disciplinary regulations, which covers derogatory, discriminatory, or degrading statements or actions that harm another person's dignity or integrity.
According to Debbie Hewitt (60), the English FA president, Rubiales also shook hands with every English player, touched their arms, and "embraced and stroked" player Laura Coombs (32)'s face. These incidents led to Hewitt perceiving his behavior as "a bit strange" and inappropriate.
Hewitt observed various other concerning actions by Rubiales. For instance, he had patted the butt of a Spanish player, and some players seemed to be avoiding him when he congratulated them. Before the award ceremony, Rubiales reportedly expressed his displeasure with his position in the line of well-wishers. Following instructions, he remained, leading Hewitt to feel "deeply uncomfortable and embarrassed" throughout the process.
Rubiales' defense lawyers criticized Hewitt's interpretation as misleading, claiming she had manipulated the events to portray him negatively. Regardless, the incidents detailed in Rubiales' case include the "Genitals Incident," "The Kiss Incident," "The Carrying Incident," and "The Peck Incident," which sparked severe criticisms and calls for his resignation and RFEF reform.
The latest allegations against Rubiales involve the incident where he forcibly kissed Spanish player Jennifer Hermoso on the lips during the medal presentation ceremony in Sydney. FIFA's report revealed that Debbie Hewitt described Rubiales' behavior as follows:
- He "cupped and stroked the face of the English player Laura Coombs," which she found odd.
- He "forcefully kissed the English player Lucy Bronze on her face."
- She witnessed him tapping the bottom of another Spanish player.[1][2][5]
The Audiencia Nacional court sentenced Rubiales to a fine of €10,950 and prohibited him from coming within 200 meters of Hermoso or communicating with her for one year. He was acquitted of the charge of coercion but found guilty of sexual assault.[1][2][5]
These allegations and descriptions highlight the severity of Rubiales' actions and the widespread criticism he faced, affecting both the Spanish and international soccer communities.
