FIFA: opening of disciplinary proceedings against Luis Rubiales (ESP), president of the RFEF

"The FIFA Disciplinary Committee informed Luis Rubiales (ESP), president of the Real Federacion Espanola de Futbol (RFEF), today that it is opening disciplinary proceedings against him based on the events that occurred during the final of the FIFA Women's World Cup 2023 on 20/08/2023," announced the international federation on 24/08/2023.

As the Spanish players greeted the match officials one by one before being presented with the World Cup trophy following their 1-0 victory over England, Luis Rubiales kissed La Roja striker Jenni Hermoso on the mouth against her will. It was an image that caused outrage not only in Spain, but also internationally, in a general context of promoting the fight against sexist and sexual violence against women.

"I didn't like it, eh, what could I do?" said the Spanish striker in a video broadcast live on social networks from the dressing room of the Spanish national team, which had just won the World Cup.

"I regret what happened. I'm sure I made a mistake, but it was a moment of great excitement and there was no ill intent. Of course, if anyone was hurt…