Disgraced Rubiales faces new Allegations of Serial Harassment of Women Players

Disgraced Rubiales faces new Allegations of Serial Harassment of Women Players

Hassan Abdulsalam 20:40 - 06.12.2023

Rubiales has been accused of inappropriate behavior towards England players Laura Coombs and Lucy Bronze following the Women's World Cup final.

According to Isle of Wight Radio, The football world has been rocked by recent revelations involving Luis Rubiales, the former president of the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF). 

In a shocking turn of events, Rubiales has been accused of inappropriate behavior towards England players Laura Coombs and Lucy Bronze following the Women's World Cup final. 

These allegations, corroborated by FIFA's investigation, have led to a significant penalty for the former football executive. 

Unsettling Conduct at the World Cup Final

After Spain's victory over England, Rubiales reportedly engaged in conduct unbecoming of his position. 

Luis Rubiales involved in a kissing scandal || Photo Credit: Imago

Debbie Hewitt, chair of the English Football Association, provided testimony to FIFA investigators, alleging that Rubiales "forcefully kissed" England defender Lucy Bronze and "stroked" teammate Laura Coombs's face. 

This behavior raised concerns about the appropriateness and professionalism of Rubiales's interactions with players during such a high-profile event.

Rubiales' Aggressive Behavior and Resignation

Beyond these specific incidents, Hewitt described Rubiales as being "unpleasant and unnecessarily aggressive" in the tunnel before the post-match presentations. 

His demeanor and actions throughout the event were out of line with the expected conduct of someone in his position. 

Spanish FA chairman Luis Rubiales and midfielder Jenni Hermoso | Imago

Following these revelations and increasing pressure, Rubiales resigned from his post as RFEF president in September, according to Mirror Online.

FIFA’s Decision and Rubiales' Defense

FIFA's disciplinary committee took these allegations seriously, imposing a three-year ban on Rubiales for his actions. 

In his defense, Rubiales condemned Hewitt's portrayal of him as "absolutely disgusting," arguing that his gestures were meant as comfort, particularly towards Coombs, who he believed was injured. 

However, this explanation did not sway the committee, which stressed that such behavior is inexcusable and unacceptable regardless of emotional state, especially from someone of Rubiales' stature in the football world.

Conclusion

The case of Luis Rubiales highlights a crucial aspect of sports governance: the need for professionalism and respect in all interactions. 

Luis Rubiales, resigned as the Spanish FA president | Photo Credit; Imago

His actions, as detailed in the FIFA investigation and resulting ban, serve as a reminder of the standards expected from those in high-ranking positions within the sports world. 

This incident tarnished Rubiales' reputation and cast a shadow over an otherwise celebratory event in women's football.

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