September 10, (THEWILL) – Luis Rubiales has confirmed his resignation as president of the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) amidst controversy surrounding an unwanted kiss with footballer Jenni Hermoso.
The 46-year-old came under fire after kissing Hermoso on the lips during a medal ceremony at the Women’s World Cup in Sydney last month. While Rubiales claimed the kiss was consensual, Hermoso insisted it was not. Rubiales had maintained his innocence but faced mounting pressure to step down.
In an interview last week, Rubiales revealed he could no longer continue in his position after speaking with his family. He has now officially resigned in a statement, giving up his roles as RFEF president and UEFA vice president. This comes after FIFA imposed a 90-day suspension on him in August, as THEWILL reported.
The controversy intensified as Spanish prosecutors filed a lawsuit against Rubiales on Friday, for alleged sexual assault and coercion. Hermoso provided testimony earlier in the week as the injured party. Rubiales now faces potential criminal charges and up to four years in prison if found guilty.
Beyond the lawsuit, Rubiales is also being investigated by the Spanish Administrative Sports Court. The RFEF apologised to the football community in a statement this week but did not acknowledge Hermoso. Rubiales’ resignation brings an end to his over 5-year tenure amidst the ongoing fallout.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
