In a decisive ruling, FIFA has upheld the three-year ban on disgraced former Spanish football chief Luis Rubiales, confirming their rejection of his appeal. The world football governing body’s Appeal Committee expressed its resolute stance, citing Rubiales’s actions as a clear violation of the principles outlined in the FIFA disciplinary code.
The controversy stems from an incident in August after the Women’s World Cup final in Sydney, where Rubiales, the ex-president of the Spanish football federation, forcibly kissed Spain midfielder Jenni Hermoso against her will. A Spanish judge had previously proposed a trial for Rubiales regarding this matter on January 25, 2024.
FIFA’s statement on the matter highlighted their conviction that Rubiales’s conduct ran counter to the established ethical standards, warranting the imposition of a three-year ban from involvement in the sport. Rubiales, however, maintains his denial, insisting that the controversial kiss was not forced.
This latest development underscores FIFA’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of the game and holding individuals accountable for actions that breach established codes of conduct. The ban signals a significant consequence for Rubiales, once a prominent figure in Spanish football, as he now faces a period of exclusion from the football community.
