FIFA’s committee has decided to temporarily suspend Luis Rubiales, the President of the Spanish Football Federation, for 90 days. The decision, effective immediately from today, August 26, 2023, restricts Rubiales from participating in any football-related activities, both nationally and internationally. The suspension awaits further disciplinary actions, with a probe initiated on August 24th.
The Spanish Football Federation had earlier expressed its full support for Rubiales, who has been at the center of a storm of criticism. The controversy sparked when Rubiales held the head of player Jenni Hermoso and kissed her during the celebration of Spain’s Women’s World Cup victory. This historical win against the English team took place in Sydney, Australia, witnessed by over 75,000 fans. Olga Carmona scored the decisive goal in the 29th minute, while star player Jenni Hermoso missed a penalty in the second half, as reported by the Spanish newspaper “Marca”.
The suspension of Rubiales has put a dent in what was a golden moment for Spanish women’s football, as the team had just clinched their first-ever Women’s World Cup trophy. The celebratory event turned into a touchstone for ethical debates around gender roles and the conduct of officials in sports. This is especially poignant given that women’s football has been gaining significant momentum in recent years, breaking stereotypes and fighting for equal attention and pay.
FIFA, as the global governing body of football, has stringent codes of conduct aimed at promoting the integrity and reputation of the sport. Actions like Rubiales’, therefore, do not only contravene these rules but also put a spotlight on the sometimes problematic dynamics between officials and athletes in the realm of sports.
The decision to suspend Rubiales is also noteworthy given Spain’s role as a powerhouse in the world of football, both in the men’s and women’s categories. With this act, FIFA seems to send a strong message about the boundaries of acceptable behavior, a move likely to resonate in football federations worldwide.
The 90-day suspension poses questions about the administrative future of Spanish football and its international engagements. As the saga continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how FIFA’s disciplinary action will shape the sport’s governance moving forward.
