Spanish Soccer Star Olga Carmona Expresses Anger Over President’s Unwanted Kiss
Olga Carmona, the Spanish soccer star who scored the winning goal in the Women’s World Cup final, has shared her frustration over Luis Rubiales’ unwanted kiss on teammate Jennifer Hermoso. Carmona believes that the kiss overshadowed the team’s historic victory and made her “angry.”
Following weeks of criticism, Rubiales resigned as president of the Spanish soccer federation (RFEF) on Sunday. In his resignation statement, Rubiales mentioned that he wouldn’t contribute anything positive to RFEF or Spanish soccer if he remained in his position.
Carmona expressed her anger about the inappropriate kiss during an appearance on the Spanish late-night talk show El Hormiguero. She emphasized that the incident occurred on a day that was not appropriate and was especially disappointing considering the team’s historic achievement.
Rubiales had previously apologized for the incident, describing it as mutual. However, Hermoso denied this claim, stating that she did not consent to the kiss and did not feel respected.
Carmona, along with more than 80 Spanish soccer players, signed a letter supporting Hermoso and stating that they would not return to the national team if the current leaders remained in their positions.
Although Rubiales’ resignation and the appointment of a new coach, Montse Tomé, have taken place, Carmona has not yet decided if she will return to the national team. She mentioned that discussions within the team are necessary to determine the next steps.
The Spanish women’s national team is scheduled to play Sweden away on September 22 in the Women’s Nations League. The federation’s department for women’s soccer is in contact with the players to determine their participation.
On Monday, UEFA released a statement acknowledging Rubiales’ resignation and the public discourse surrounding him and his actions. UEFA thanked Rubiales for his service to European football.
Rubiales may still face charges for his actions at the Women’s World Cup final. Spain’s National Court has admitted the complaint made against him by Spanish prosecutors for sexual assault and coercion. The court will begin gathering evidence, which includes requesting videos of the incident from news outlets.
The incident involving Rubiales’ unwanted kiss has sparked important conversations about player welfare and the treatment of women in soccer. UEFA recently hosted a conference with prominent women in soccer to address these issues and create an independent voice of experience and expertise.
Carmona’s hope is that the focus will shift from the incident to the team’s achievement as world champions. She has yet to decide whether she will continue representing the national team, citing the recent changes and discussions that need to take place.
As the court investigates the complaint against Rubiales, it remains to be seen what further actions will be taken to address the incident and ensure the safety and respect of players in the future.