World Football Governing Body FIFA, has opened disciplinary proceedings against the President of the Spanish FA Luis Rubiales following his unsolicited kiss on Women’s World Cup winner Jenni Hermoso’s lips
The incident which happened as Rubiales was presenting the players with their medals after they defeated England 1-0 in the final on Sunday, sparked outrage within and outside Spain, with Hermoso saying such acts should never go unpunished through her players’ union on Wednesday.
The Disciplinary Committee says the behavior may constitute violations of article 13 paragraphs 1 and 2 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code.
It says the Committee will only provide further information on the disciplinary proceedings once it has reached a final decision on the matter.
FIFA reiterates its unwavering commitment to respecting the integrity of all individuals and strongly condemns any behaviour to the contrary
The pressure is growing on Rubiales, who has also been condemned for the manner in which he hugged and kissed other players on their cheeks and throwing Athenea del Castillo over his shoulder.
Rubiales, 46, initially said those criticising his behaviour were idiots but later posted a video apologising, although Spain’s Acting Prime Minster Pedro Sánchez said his apology was insufficient and inadequate.
Other government ministers have called for him to resign, while the Spanish Players’ Association the equivalent for female players, Liga F and FIFPRO are among other institutions that condemned his actions.
