FIFA’s charge and open disciplinary proceedings against RFEF President, Luis Rubiales, for Jenni Hermoso kiss

Football’s governing body, FIFA, has opened disciplinary proceedings against the President of the Spanish Football Federation, Luis Rubiales, for forcibly kissing Jenni Hermoso on the lips following Spain’s Women’s World Cup win against England.

The incident came after Spain beat England 1-0 in Sydney thanks to a first half goal from Olga Carmona. In the medal presentation, Luis Rubiales grabbed the head of Jenni, who plays for Pachuca in Mexico, before forcibly kissing her on the lips.

The incident sparked a worldwide reaction, with Spain’s acting President, Pedro Sánchez, commenting on the incident, saying it was “unacceptable”. A statement released by the RFEF, said to be on behalf of Jenni, said that the kiss “was a totally spontaneous mutual gesture”.

This came before Jenni published that “[her] union, FUTPRO, in coordination with my agency, TMJ, are taking care of defending my interests and being the interlocutors on this matter.”

FIFPRO release a statement

The global players’ union FIFPRO also made a statement on the matter, saying “FifPro fully endorses the statement of Spanish player union AFE in calling for immediate action to address the conduct of Spanish federation president Luis Rubiales at the Fifa Women’s World Cup final and is requesting an investigation of his actions under Fifa’s code of ethics.

We reiterate that it was deeply lamentable that such a special moment for the players of the Spain national team taking place before a global television audience should be stained by the inappropriate conduct of an individual in a role carrying so much responsibility. Uninitiated and uninvited physical approaches towards players are not appropriate or acceptable in any context, and especially when they are put in a position of vulnerability by a person who holds a position of power over them in their workplace.”

FIFA charge Rubiales: what is the punishment?

Now, FIFA themselves have made a statement on the issue, saying “The FIFA Disciplinary Committee informed Luis Rubiales, President of the Spanish Football Association, 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 on 20 August 2023.

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The events may constitute violations of article 13 paragraphs 1 and 2 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code.The FIFA Disciplinary Committee will only provide further information on these disciplinary proceedings once it has issued 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.”

There is no word of what potential punishment Luis Rubiales may get from FIFA, who say they will not announce anything until a decision has been made, but AS USA will keep you updated with the latest news.