Kiss gate: Rodri, Azpilicueta, Morata, Asensio release statement denouncing Rubiales

Kiss gate: Rodri, Azpilicueta, Morata, Asensio release statement denouncing Rubiales

Faruq Ibrahim 21:31 - 04.09.2023

Spanish national team captains release statement in support of Jennifer Hermoso.

The four Spanish national team captains, Alvaro Morata, Rodri, Cesar Azpilicueta, and Marco Asensio, have released a statement on behalf of the team denouncing the actions of RFEF president Luis Rubiales. 

What has happened?

Members of the Spanish men's national team have been heavily criticised by sections of the media for not lending their voice in support of Jennifer Hermoso. 

The 31-year-old former Barcelona striker was kissed on the lips by Spanish FA president Rubiales during the medal ceremony after La Roja won the World Cup a few weeks ago. 

Following the incident, all the members of Spain's women's team removed themselves from national team contention, demanding the resignation of Rubiales. 

Real Betis striker Borja Iglesias, who has two Caps for Spain, also did the same, publicly showing support for Hermoso, leading many to call out the rest of the team to do the same.  

Rubiales has still refused to tender his resignation, however, he has been provisionally suspended by FIFA and is under investigation.

Luis Rubiales involved in a kissing scandal || Photo Credit: Imago
Luis Rubiales involved in a kissing scandal || Photo Credit: Imago
Luis Rubiales' Spain's FA President finally speaks | Photo Credit: Courtesy
Luis Rubiales' Spain's FA President finally speaks | Photo Credit: Courtesy

Spain's captains' statement

La Roja players are converged for the international break, and in the statement released via the RFEF website, the captains said the following. 

“First of all, we want to convey, once again, our pride and our most sincere congratulations to the Women's National Team for the title of World Champions in Sydney,” They said.

“A historical milestone full of meaning that will mark a before and after in Spanish women's football, inspiring many women with a triumph of incalculable value. For this reason, we want to regret and express our solidarity with the players who have seen their success tarnished.

“We want to reject what we consider unacceptable behaviour on the part of Mr. Rubiales, who has not lived up to the institution he represents.

“We place ourselves firmly and clearly on the side of the values ​​that sport represents. Spanish football must be an engine of respect, inspiration, equality, and diversity and must set an example with its conduct both on and off the field.

“From today, we face a decisive concentration for the future of Spanish football on our way to qualify for Euro2024 with two games against Georgia and Cyprus. We would like from now on to be able to focus on sporting issues given the relevance of the challenges that lie ahead.

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