Title: Spanish Court Rejects Government’s Attempt to Remove Soccer Chief Over Unwanted Kiss
Introduction:
The Spanish government’s efforts to remove Luis Rubiales, the beleaguered soccer chief, from his position following an unwanted kiss he gave to Spain star Jennifer Hermoso, have suffered a setback. The country’s Court of Arbitration in Sport (TAD) has agreed to open a case against Rubiales but rejected the government’s argument that his offenses were “very serious.” This decision prevents his immediate suspension and forces ministers to ask the tribunal to take action instead.
Details:
Minister of Culture and Sport Miquel Iceta announced during a press conference that he will submit a separate complaint to TAD, urging the removal of Rubiales from his post until the investigation is resolved. The pressure on Rubiales has been mounting since the incident occurred after Spain’s victory in the Women’s World Cup on August 20.
FIFA, the global governing body for soccer, has already suspended Rubiales from all football-related activities for 90 days. Additionally, the government’s High Council of Sport (CSD) may also consider imposing a suspension on Rubiales.
The government, in a statement, described Rubiales’ actions as “very serious” violations of the country’s Law of Sport during the World Cup final. However, TAD has now rejected this claim.
Rubiales expressed regret over his actions, apologizing to players, the federation, fans, and anyone who may have been offended. He acknowledged his mistakes and cited the need for sports leaders to exhibit exemplary behavior, even in moments of great joy and deep emotion.
Hermoso, on the other hand, made it clear that she did not consent to the kiss and considered herself a victim of a sexist act. She further rejected Rubiales’ claim that the act was consensual.
The incident has led to calls for Rubiales’ resignation from the position of RFEF president. During a speech at the federation’s Extraordinary General Assembly, Rubiales refused to step down, vowing to “fight to the end.” However, all 19 of the Spanish federation’s regional presidents have called for his resignation while offering unanimous support for interim president Pedro Rocha.
Conclusion:
The Spanish government’s attempt to remove Luis Rubiales from his position as soccer chief has been unsuccessful, as the Court of Arbitration in Sport rejected the argument that his offenses were “very serious.” The case against Rubiales will proceed, and until the investigation is resolved, Minister Miquel Iceta has requested his removal from the post. The controversy surrounding the unwanted kiss and Rubiales’ refusal to resign has deepened the rift within the Spanish Football Federation. The future of Rubiales’ presidency remains uncertain as the investigation continues.