Spain’s soccer honcho Luis Rubiales was just temporarily barred from participating in football events around the globe … this after he planted an unwanted kiss on a player after his country won the World Cup last weekend.
The FIFA Disciplinary Committee issued a statement Saturday, saying Rubiales was provisionally suspended from “all football-related activities at national and international level.” His initial suspension is for 90 days, pending the results of an investigation launched on August 24.
Rubiales’ troubles stem from an incident that occurred last Sunday after Spain beat England 1-0 to snag the FIFA Women’s World Cup.
During the ensuing medal ceremony, Rubiales approached one of Spain’s players, Jenni Hermoso, and gave her an unsolicited kiss, which was caught on camera.
He was also photographed carrying another player over his shoulder and grabbing his own crotch.
FIFA says Rubiales — president of the Royal Spanish Soccer Federation — might have violated rules pertaining to “offensive behavior and violations of the principles of fair play.”
As for Rubiales’ response, he initially apologized for his actions, but, after that didn’t work, he turned defiant, refusing to step down from his post despite calls for him to do so. In fact, the women’s soccer team threatened to go on strike if FIFA failed to suspend him.
Well, it seems they got their wish. Stay tuned for more. This one ain’t over.
