Luis Rubiales has declared that he has resigned from his position as the chief of the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) following a kissing incident involving Jenni Hermoso during the Women’s World Cup finale.
The former leader of Spain FA confirmed his departure in a conversation with Talk TV’s Piers Morgan.
His actions ignited massive outrage within the soccer community and amongst the wider audience, and he admits that the fallouts has rendered his position unsustainable.
When questioned by Morgan about the possibility of his resignation, Rubiales acknowledged: “I am going to – of course I cannot continue my work”.
He subsequently noted that discussions with his father and daughters greatly influenced his decision. “They know it’s not a question about me”, he remarked.
“Some friends very close to me said ‘Luis, now you have to focus on your dignity and continue your life – if not, you are probably going to damage people you love and the sport you love’. In this situation now, this is the thing that I have to do”.
As his interview was broadcasted, Rubiales posted a link to an official declaration, paired with the message: “I will defend my honorability. I will defend my innocence. I have faith in the future. I have faith in the truth. Thank you all”.
His statement read: ”I have presented my resignation from the position of president of the RFEF. I have also informed you that I have done the same with my position at UEFA so that my position in the Vice Presidency can be replaced”.
“After the quick suspension carried out by FIFA, plus the rest of open proceedings against me, it is evident that I will be able to return to my position.”
“Insisting on waiting and holding on is not going to contribute to anything positive, neither to the Federation nor to Spanish football”.
He emphasized that he didn’t “want Spanish football to be harmed” as preparations are underway to propose a bid for the hosting of the 2030 World Cup, simultaneously extending his gratitude to all who have stood by him.
“I must look forward, look to the future,” penned. “Now there is something that concerns me firmly. I have faith in the truth and I will do everything be in my power to prevail.
“My daughters, my family and the people who love me have suffered the effects of persecution excessive, as well as many falsehoods, but it is also true that on the street, more and more every day, the truth is prevailing”.
Spain’s women’s football team had made their intentions clear to boycott future games representing their nation until Rubiales was ousted from his presidential duties.
Hermoso filed an official allegation of sexual assault against Rubiales with the Spanish legal authorities. This instance signifies the inaugural formal accusation from the athlete since the incident a month ago.
The player expressed that the encounter made her experience vulnerability and an instance of assault. She characterized it as “an impulsive, sexist act, out of place and without any type of consent on my part.”
In Rubiales’ case, his departure signifies a significant reversal from his statements barely two weeks prior, where he asserted: “I will not resign. Did you really think a peck would bring me down?”
Subsequent to the incident, he informed the press: “The spontaneity and happiness of the historic moment led us to carry out a mutual and consensual act, a product of great enthusiasm”.
“At no time was there any aggression, indeed, there was not even the slightest discomfort, but an overflowing joy in both of us”.
Rubiales has furthermore resigned from his role as a UEFA vice-president. In a personal statement, he noted: “It is clear that I will not be able to return to my position. I do not want Spanish football to be harmed by this entirely disproportionate campaign”.
