Spanish Football Boss Rubiales Resigns Over Controversial World Cup Kiss
Luis Rubiales, President of the Spanish Football Federation, has quit in a shock move following a scandalous kissing incident during the Women’s World Cup final ceremony. The kiss, aimed at Spain forward Jenni Hermoso, sparked outrage after Hermoso claimed it was non-consensual and filed a legal complaint.
World Cup Final Kiss Sparks Legal Firestorm
The drama unfolded moments after Spain’s victory against England in the Women’s World Cup final. Hermoso, 33, voiced her discomfort and immediately launched a formal complaint last Tuesday. The incident quickly dominated headlines across Spain and beyond.
Rubiales Faces Sexual Assault Investigation
Rubiales, 46, originally insisted the kiss was “mutual and consensual.” But his defence fell flat as FIFA slapped him with a provisional suspension. The situation worsened when a prosecutor filed a sexual assault and coercion complaint against him at Spain’s high court, following Hermoso’s detailed testimony.
‘I Cannot Continue’ – Rubiales Quits Amid Mounting Pressure
Speaking on Piers Morgan’s show, Rubiales admitted: “I cannot continue my role.” He also stepped down as UEFA vice-president, signalling a major career blow. Despite his resignation, he vowed to fight for his reputation, saying: “I have faith in the truth, and I will do everything in my power to prevail.”
Rubiales lamented the impact on his family, who have endured “excessive persecution” and the spread of “many falsehoods.” The saga marks a dramatic fall from grace for one of Spanish football’s leading figures.
