Men’s football players for Spain have criticized Luis Rubiales’ “unacceptable behaviour” as federation head.
After Spain’s victory in the Women’s World Cup final last month, Rubiales, 46, kissed midfielder Jenni Hermoso on the lips, drawing harsh criticism.
In response to the kiss, which Hermoso claimed was not consensual, Rubiales has repeatedly refused to step down.
The men’s team has stated their “regret and solidarity with the players whose success has been tarnished”.
In a statement made on behalf of the Spain team, forward Alvaro Morata said, “We want to denounce what we consider reprehensible behaviour on the part of Mr. Rubiales, who has not lived up to the institution he represents.
“We firmly and unmistakably support the ideals that this sport stands for.
The behaviour of Spanish football players both on and off the field must serve as an example of respect, inspiration, inclusiveness, and diversity.
The men’s team’s head coach, Luis de la Fuente, apologized last week after at first cheering Rubiales’ statement in which he declared he wouldn’t step down.
De la Fuente stated that he would continue in his position.
On August 20, at Sydney’s Stadium Australia, following Spain’s 1-0 victory over England, Rubiales also seized his private area, where Queen Letizia of Spain and her daughter, age 16, were watching.
Fifa, the international governing body, has temporarily suspended him, and Spain’s national sports tribunal (TAD) has launched a disciplinary investigation into him.
On September 1, Rubiales said he had “made mistakes” but reiterated his conviction that the kiss had been consented to.
“I will continue to defend myself to prove the truth,” he continued.
Morata read out the statement at a news conference along with senior teammates Marco Asensio, Cesar Azpilicueta, and Rodri.
The women’s national team won the World Cup in Sydney, and we want to express our joy and sincere congratulations for that, he stated.
There will be a before and after in Spanish women’s football thanks to this historic victory, which will serve as an inspiration for innumerable women.
Therefore, we would like to offer our sorrow and support for the players whose reputation has been damaged.
Before their Euro 2024 qualifying matches against Georgia on Friday and Cyprus on Tuesday, September 12, Spain’s team convened for a training camp.
Given the significance of the challenges that lie ahead, we would like to devote our attention going forward to sporting matters, said Morata.
