Spain’s administrative Sports Court (TAD) has launched an investigation into Luis Rubiales, the president of the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), for inappropriate behavior. This follows his unsolicited kiss on Jennifer Hermoso after the World Cup final. While the ruling does not allow for an immediate suspension, Rubiales could potentially face a ban from football for up to two years.
The TAD’s ruling is based on Spain’s outdated 1990 sports law, which categorizes Rubiales’ actions as a “serious” but not “very serious” breach of conduct. This lenient ruling is a setback for the Spanish government, who were hoping to suspend Rubiales from his position. However, an investigation will continue, and the government, through the Superior Sports Council (CSD), plans to seek his suspension via TAD.
The Spanish Government’s Response
Miquel Iceta, Spain’s Minister of Culture and Sports, expressed disappointment with TAD’s decision, stating that they believe Rubiales’ actions were indeed “very serious.” Iceta revealed that they will file a request for TAD to reconsider their position. The government still aims to suspend Rubiales and hopes that TAD will come to the same conclusion.
A Potential Return for Rubiales
Had TAD ruled the infraction as “very serious,” the government could have intervened and immediately suspended Rubiales. However, with the current ruling, Rubiales could potentially return to his presidency when his provisional suspension from FIFA ends in 90 days. This uncertain outcome raises questions about the effectiveness of the current sports law.
Possibility of a Criminal Case
In addition to the administrative investigation, Spanish prosecutors have begun a preliminary investigation into Rubiales’ conduct. They have also offered Jennifer Hermoso the opportunity to press charges against him. If a criminal case proceeds, Rubiales could face not only a ban from football but also criminal penalties.
Rubiales’ conduct has attracted widespread condemnation, with various sporting bodies and government ministers urging him to step down. Apart from the Hermoso incident, Rubiales has also been criticized for other inappropriate actions, including grabbing his crotch, hugging and kissing other players, and even carrying someone over his shoulder during the celebrations.
Rubiales’ Defense and Critics’ Response
Rubiales has defended himself by claiming that the kiss with Hermoso was “consensual” and blamed “false feminists” for the backlash. However, Hermoso rejected his claims, describing the incident as an “aggressive act” that left her feeling vulnerable. The wider football community has stood in support of Hermoso, with players, coaches, and the global union for professional footballers, FIFPRO, calling for change and greater accountability within the sport.
The Fallout for Others
Luis de la Fuente, Spain’s men’s coach, has faced criticism for applauding Rubiales’ speech, where the president refused to resign. De la Fuente has since apologized, acknowledging that his actions were “unjustifiable” and that the criticism he received was deserved. Some have called for De la Fuente’s resignation, highlighting his delay in condemning Rubiales’ behavior. De la Fuente has expressed regret and promised to do better in the future.
The Path Forward
While Rubiales’ fate hangs in the balance, De la Fuente has urged the relevant bodies to resolve the situation and evaluate it accordingly. He emphasized the need for continued work to improve equality in football and acknowledged that mistakes can be made but should also be rectified. The scandal has exposed the pressing need for change and accountability within the football community, not only in Spain but worldwide.
The investigation into Luis Rubiales’ behavior has created shockwaves in Spanish football. The lenient ruling by TAD and the possibility of Rubiales returning to his position have raised questions about the efficacy of the current sports law. The potential criminal case adds further uncertainty to his future in football. As the scandal unfolds, the wider football community calls for change and greater accountability to ensure a safe and respectful environment for all within the sport.
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