The world football governing body FIFA announced on Monday, that it has placed a three-year ban on the former president of Spain’s football association (RFEF), Luis Rubiales, from all football-related activities at both national and international levels.
The embattled Rubiales had already been temporarily suspended from football at a professional level for 90 days by FIFA after the kissing incident that ensued between him and La Roja forward Jennifer Hermoso during the Women’s World Cup in August.
The ex-Spain FA boss kissed Hermoso on the lips non-consensually during the trophy celebrations and subsequently refused to admit any wrongdoing, despite her claims of feeling humiliated.
FIFA ruled that Rubiales breached Article 13 of the football association’s disciplinary code, titled offensive behaviour and violations of the principles of fair play, which includes behaviours like “insulting” people with offensive gestures or “behaving in a way that brings the sport of football and/or FIFA into disrepute.”
Rubiales, who resigned from his roles as RFEF president and UEFA vice-president last month, was also seen grabbing his crotch while standing next to Spain’s queen and princess during celebrations for Spain’s 1-0 win over England in the final of the women’s World Cup. He was also pictured carrying Spain winger Athenea del Castillo over his shoulder during their post-match celebrations.
The football body said in a statement: “Mr Rubiales has been notified of the terms of the FIFA Disciplinary Committee’s decision today. In accordance with the relevant provisions of the FIFA Disciplinary Code.
“He has 10 days in which to request a motivated decision, which, if requested, would subsequently be published on legal.fifa.com. The decision remains subject to a possible appeal before the FIFA Appeal Committee.
“FIFA reiterates its absolute commitment to respecting and protecting the integrity of all people and ensuring that the basic rules of decent conduct are upheld.”
Rubiales, however, has said he will appeal the decision. The 46-year-old is also facing criminal charges in Spain for sexual assault and coercion for pressuring Hermoso to publicly say that she agreed to the kiss.
