FIFA has opened disciplinary proceedings against Spanish football association (RFEF) president Luis Rubiales following incident at the Women’s World Cup final.
Rubiales has drawn widespread criticism for his actions after Spain beat England on Sunday, with the official kissing striker Jenni Hermoso on the lips during the presentation ceremony and grabbing his crotch in celebration shortly after the final whistle.
The president later apologised in a video message, but has faced calls to resign — including from the presidents of La Liga sides Getafe and Real Sociedad.
The global players’ union FIFPRO released a statement on Wednesday calling for immediate action to be taken, saying: “it is deeply lamentable that such a special moment … should be stained by the inappropriate conduct of an individual in a role carrying so much responsibility”.
A FIFA statement on Thursday read: “The FIFA Disciplinary Committee informed Luis Rubiales, President of the Spanish Football Association, today that it is opening disciplinary proceedings against him based on the events that occurred during the final of the FIFA Women’s World Cup on 20 August 2023.
“The events may constitute violations of article 13 paragraphs 1 and 2 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code.The FIFA Disciplinary Committee will only provide further information on these disciplinary proceedings once it has issued a final decision on the matter.
“FIFA reiterates its unwavering commitment to respecting the integrity of all individuals and strongly condemns any behaviour to the contrary.”
More to follow.
