By Milcah Tanimu
FIFA, the world’s football governing body, has imposed a three-year ban on former Spanish football federation chief Luis Rubiales following an incident at the Women’s World Cup final. During the trophy ceremony, Rubiales forcibly kissed player Jenni Hermoso on the lips, leading to charges related to “basic rules of decent conduct” and “behaving in a way that brings the sport of football and/or FIFA into disrepute.”
The disciplinary committee judges, investigating the case, confirmed the ban beyond the next men’s World Cup in 2026. Rubiales, who is also under criminal investigation in Spain for the same incident, denied wrongdoing and had a restraining order imposed, preventing him from contacting Hermoso.
Apart from the forced kiss, Rubiales was also cited for a victory gesture involving a crotch grab and an incident where he carried Spanish player Athenea del Castillo over his shoulder during post-match celebrations. These actions led to his provisional suspension and eventual removal from office.
Rubiales resigned from his football roles in September, acknowledging his inability to return to his post after the swift suspension by FIFA. He also stepped down from his vice presidency of UEFA. FIFA’s decision now complicates Spain’s bid, backed by UEFA, to host the men’s 2030 World Cup. Rubiales has the option to request details of the disciplinary verdict and file an appeal within 10 days, with the possibility of a further appeal at the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
