Luis Rubiales Resigns as Head of Spanish Soccer Federation Amid Controversy

In a surprising turn of events, Luis Rubiales, the head of the Spanish soccer federation, has announced his resignation, just two weeks after vehemently insisting he would not step down despite facing criticism for his behavior at the World Cup final.

Rubiales made the announcement in a post written in Spanish on Sunday. In the statement, he did not offer an apology but expressed his determination to defend his honor and innocence. He stated, “I will defend my honor. I will defend my innocence. I have faith in the future. I have faith in the truth.”

Attached to his post was a statement in which Rubiales explained that after FIFA suspended him last month, he realized he had no choice but to step down. He also resigned from his role as the vice president of UEFA, the governing body of European soccer, acknowledging that he could not return to his duties.

Rubiales, whose actions at the World Cup final included grabbing his crotch and kissing a Spain player without her consent, insisted that the incident had been blown out of proportion. He cited the burden placed on his loved ones and emphasized that he is stepping away to clear the name of European football. Europe is currently vying to host the 2030 World Cup.

He mentioned that his family, particularly his daughters, had endured the effects of excessive persecution and misinformation. However, he believed that the truth was gradually prevailing in the public eye.

The controversy began when Rubiales claimed that Jenni Hermoso, the Spain player he kissed, had consented to the kiss and even initiated it. Hermoso quickly refuted this claim, stating that she felt as if she had been assaulted. Her and her World Cup teammates’ stance prompted them to declare that they would not play again “until the team’s leaders resign,” which could potentially jeopardize Spain’s chances of qualifying for the Paris Olympics.

Rubiales’ departure marks the end of a tumultuous chapter for Spain’s World Cup champions, who previously faced challenges related to the team environment and concerns expressed to the federation.

Rubiales remains under disciplinary proceedings by FIFA, and his resignation may raise questions about his position as a vice president with UEFA, which has yet to comment on the issues surrounding Rubiales and the problems he created for Spanish football.