In a surprising turn of events, Spain’s football chief, Luis Rubiales, did not step down as expected after facing severe backlash for kissing forward Jenni Hermoso during the Women’s World Cup medal presentation. At an emergency meeting of the football federation, Rubiales defiantly declared that he would not resign, criticized “false feminism,” and insisted that the gesture was just a “peck.” The Spanish government expressed its disapproval and announced plans to take legal action against Rubiales if the federation did not respond. Several high-ranking members of the federation, including the overseer of women’s football, resigned in the aftermath of the controversy.
While many were hopeful for Rubiales’ resignation, he instead vowed to fight the situation to the end. Rubiales apologized for grabbing his crotch during the World Cup, but maintained that the kiss was consensual. This response further infuriated the members of the World Cup-winning squad, who expressed their support for Hermoso, calling her the victim in the situation. The acting minister of equality and other officials vowed to take action, and the public prosecutor and National Sports Council announced their involvement.
The outpouring of support for Hermoso and condemnation for Rubiales suggests that this battle may continue for some time. People are calling for change and comparing the controversy to the #MeToo movement in Spanish football. Rubiales, on the other hand, refers to the events as a “social assassination” carried out by “false feminists.” While some individuals and organizations have demanded Rubiales’ resignation, others have simply expressed disappointment in his behavior.
Jenni Hermoso’s union, Futpro, is working to ensure that such actions are not tolerated and that appropriate measures are taken to protect soccer players. Sevilla, the Europa League winners, condemned Rubiales’ actions and called for his resignation. FC Barcelona and Real Madrid also voiced their disapproval and supported the National Sports Council’s decision to bring the case before a tribunal. The future of Rubiales’ position remains uncertain as legal action is pursued.