Luis Rubiales is experiencing a tumultuous time after the debacle that took place on Sunday. Spain had just won the Women’s World Cup and were enjoying the celebrations when Rubiales, the head of the Spanish FA, decided to kiss Jenni Hermoso on the lips during the trophy presentation.
Hermoso did an Instagram live a couple of hours later, saying that she “didn’t like” what Rubiales did. Since Sunday, investigations have been taking place and Rubiales has been under serious pressure from all angles. Relevo are reporting that there are calls for him to resign from his role at the Football Federation.
Pedro Sánchez, Spain’s president, has lambasted Rubiales. “What we saw was an unacceptable gesture. Rubiales’ apologies are not enough, I even think they are not adequate,” he said.
Spain’s second deputy prime minister, Yolanda Diaz, has called for Rubiales to resign. Spain’s equalities minister, Irene Montero said: “It’s a form of sexual violence women suffer on a daily basis.”
One thing that is clear is that the 46-year-old faces an uphill battle to keep his job. Indications, however, are that his assembly are behind him, and are showing continued support for him to remain in his position.
What Rubiales did on Sunday was behavior that does not go unnoticed, especially in the world of social media where everyone will voice their opinions and seek justice. The investigations into the event will continue to take place, with a view to deciding Rubiales’ future as quickly as possible.
Japtej Ghura | GSFN
