Embattled Luis Rubiales has resigned as president of the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) amidst controversy surrounding an unwanted kiss with footballer Jenni Hermoso.
The Herald reports that Luis Rubiales (46) came under fire after kissing Hermoso on the lips during a medal ceremony at the Women’s World Cup in Sydney last month. While Rubiales claimed the kiss was consensual, Hermoso insisted it was not. Rubiales had maintained his innocence but faced mounting pressure to step down.
In an interview last week, Rubiales revealed he could no longer continue in his position after speaking with his family. He has now officially resigned in a statement, giving up his roles as RFEF president and UEFA vice president. This comes after FIFA imposed a 90-day suspension on him in August.
In an open letter published by Rubiales on Sunday night, he said he had informed the federation he was also stepping down as a vice-president of European football governing body UEFA.
“After the swift suspension carried out by FIFA, plus the rest of the procedures opened against me, it is evident that I will not be able to return to my position,” said Rubiales in the letter.
“Insisting on waiting and clinging to it is not going to contribute to anything positive, neither for the federation nor for Spanish football.
“Among other things, because there are powers that be that will prevent my return.”
Rubiales, who insists the kiss was consensual, said he did not want Spanish football to be hurt by “such a disproportionate campaign” against him.
“I have faith in the truth and I will do everything in my power so that it prevails,” he wrote.