- Reactions to FIFA suspending Spanish soccer federation head Rubiales

Spanish football federation (RFEF) President Luis Rubiales has been provisionally suspended by world soccer governing body FIFA after he kissed player Jenni Hermoso on the lips following Spain’s victory at the Women’s World Cup. The chairman of the FIFA Disciplinary Committee, Jorge Ivan Palacio, has decided to provisionally suspend Rubiales from all football-related activities at national and international level. The suspension will be effective for 90 days. Rubiales is also ordered to refrain from contacting Hermoso or her close environment. Pedro Rocha Junco will assume the interim presidency during this period. Rubiales has stated that he will defend himself legally and trusts the FIFA bodies to ensure the truth prevails and his innocence is proven. Xavi Hernandez, Barcelona manager, condemns Rubiales’ behavior and expresses support for Jennifer Hermoso and the players. Hollie Varney, COO of anti-discriminatory body Kick It Out, calls for accountability and welcomes FIFA’s provisional suspension of Rubiales. Gary Lineker, former England and Barcelona striker and television pundit, expresses relief that attention can now be focused on the Spanish women’s achievement. Ian Wright, former England striker and television pundit, criticizes UEFA for their silence and lack of solidarity. He also questions their leadership of women’s football.