FIFA open Rubiales proceedings after Jenni Hermoso kiss on World Cup podium
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IFA has opened disciplinary proceedings in opposition to Spanish FA president Luis Rubiales in relation to his conduct on the World Cup closing in Sydney on Sunday.
Rubiales has confronted heavy criticism after he grabbed his crotch in celebration of Spain‘s victory over England, whereas stood metres away from Spain’s Queen Letizia and her teenage daughter Sofia within the stadium VIP space.
Rubiales then kissed Spain midfielder Jenni Hermoso on the lips through the trophy celebration.
FIFA mentioned in an announcement issued on Thursday afternoon: “The FIFA disciplinary committee informed Luis Rubiales, president of the Spanish Football Association, today that it is opening disciplinary proceedings against him based on the events that occurred during the final of the FIFA Women’s World Cup on August 20, 2023.”
The assertion added: “The events may constitute violations of article 13 paragraphs 1 and 2 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code. The FIFA disciplinary committee will only provide further information on these disciplinary proceedings once it has issued a final decision on the matter.
“FIFA reiterates its unwavering commitment to respecting the integrity of all individuals and strongly condemns any behaviour to the contrary.”
The sections of the disciplinary code referenced within the FIFA assertion cowl “offensive behaviour and violations of the principles of fair play”.
The code cites examples of behaviour which might result in disciplinary measures being taken, together with “insulting a natural or legal person in any way, especially by using offensive gestures, signs or language” and “behaving in a way that brings the sport of football and/or FIFA into disrepute”.
Rubiales issued an apology by way of video on Monday for the Hermoso kiss, however Spanish prime minister Pedro Sanchez described the apology as “insufficient”.
The Spanish FA has referred to as a unprecedented basic meeting on Friday in response to the matter, whereas confirming it has opened inside proceedings.
World gamers’ union FIFPRO had referred to as on FIFA to open proceedings in opposition to Rubiales in an announcement issued on Wednesday. It has been approached for remark following the opening of proceedings.
On the identical night as FIFPRO’s assertion, the FUTPRO union in Spain, which Hermoso has mentioned is representing her pursuits on this case, expressed its “firm and resounding condemnation” for behaviour “which violates the dignity of women” in its personal assertion.
“From our association we ask the Spanish FA to implement the necessary protocols and ensure the rights of our players and adopt exemplary measures,” FUTPRO mentioned.
“It is essential that our team, the current world champions, are always represented by figures who project values ??of equality and respect in all areas.”