The Spanish men’s national team has strongly criticized the “unacceptable behavior” of the suspended football chief, Luis Rubiales, regarding his controversial World Cup kiss. Rubiales, aged 46, has defied expectations by refusing to step down as the president of the Spanish football federation despite forcibly kissing Jenni Hermoso on the lips after Spain’s Women’s World Cup victory.
During the August 20 prize-giving ceremony in Sydney, Atletico Madrid’s forward, Alvaro Morata, read out a statement on behalf of the entire men’s team, congratulating their female counterparts for their historic achievement. Morata stated that the men’s team stands in solidarity with the women players and condemns the fact that Rubiales’ actions had tarnished their success.
Morata added, “We want to denounce the unacceptable behaviour of Mr Rubiales who has not lived up to the institution he represents.
“We are firmly on the side of the values enshrined in sport.
“Spanish football should be the source of respect, inspiration, inclusivity and diversity, and should lead by example in its behaviour both on and off the pitch.”
Hermoso has joined a mass strike of women players, saying she did not consent to the kiss.
Women players’ union Futpro, Hermoso and 80 other players have said they would not accept an international call-up “if the current leadership continues” at the RFEF.
Rubiales has stood firm in refusing to stand down from his post “because of a little consensual kiss,” provoking widespread indignation.
World football’s governing body FIFA has suspended him for 90 days and launched a disciplinary inquiry into his behaviour.
Rubiales is also the subject of an investigation by Spain’s sports court.
