Title: Spanish Football Association President Luis Rubiales to Resign Following Controversial Nonconsensual Kiss
Introduction:
Luis Rubiales, the president of the Spanish football federation, is set to resign on Friday due to the international backlash he faced for giving a nonconsensual kiss on the lips to a Spain player during the Women’s World Cup celebrations. Rubiales’ actions have sparked outrage and drawn condemnation from top politicians and officials.
Body:
Rubiales Faces Severe Criticism:
After Spain’s victory against England in the Women’s World Cup final, Rubiales grabbed Spain’s midfielder Jenni Hermoso and planted a kiss on her lips during the medal ceremony. This act drew immediate criticism, including from Hermoso herself, who expressed her discomfort in an Instagram Live video by saying, “But what can I do? I didn’t like it, eh.”
Insufficient Apologies Met with Disapproval:
Rubiales attempted to apologize for his actions, claiming they were not intended maliciously and occurred in a moment of excitement. However, his apologies failed to appease Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, who labeled the incident as “unacceptable.” Rubiales’ behavior was also widely criticized by other politicians, including Equality Minister Irene Montero and Minister of Culture and Sport Miquel Iceta.
Calls for Resignation Grow:
Following the intense criticism and public outcry, Rubiales called for an emergency meeting of the football federation’s general assembly on Friday. It is widely anticipated that he will submit his resignation during this meeting. The potential resignation was first reported by Spain’s Cadena Ser.
Investigations Launched:
The Spanish football federation has initiated an internal investigation to determine whether Rubiales violated their protocol against sexism. Furthermore, FIFA, the global football association, has opened disciplinary proceedings against Rubiales in response to the incident that occurred during the Women’s World Cup.
World Cup Victory Overshadowed:
Despite the controversy surrounding Rubiales, Spain’s victory in the Women’s World Cup final against England stands as a landmark achievement. The team secured a 1-0 victory thanks to a goal from Real Madrid’s Olga Carmona, ensuring a historic moment for Spanish women’s football.
Conclusion:
Luis Rubiales’ nonconsensual kiss on a Spain player’s lips during the Women’s World Cup celebrations has led to his impending resignation as the president of the Spanish football federation. The incident has brought international outrage and condemnation, leading to internal investigations and disciplinary proceedings. Nonetheless, Spain’s victory in the Women’s World Cup final remains a significant milestone for the country’s women’s football.