Pedro Sanchez on Tuesday, August 22, described as “unacceptable” the kiss that the president of the Royal Spanish Football Federation, Luis Rubiales, imposed on player Jenni Hermoso after the victory of the women’s national team in the final of the Spanish Cup. world. “[Luis Rubiales’] apologies are insufficient” and “inadequate”, added the Spanish Prime Minister during a press conference in Madrid.
This gesture, filmed and broadcast in mondovision, took place before the presentation of the trophy after the Spanish women’s team won the World Cup final against England (1-0). “I was wrong, I have to admit,” Mr. Rubiales wrote in a message and accompanying video, posted Monday, August 21, on X (formerly Twitter).
“Dictatorial” methods
Jenni Hermoso said she “didn’t like it”, but it was “a completely spontaneous mutual gesture because of the immense joy that comes from winning a World Cup” . “The President and I have a great relationship, his behavior with all of us was perfect and it was a natural gesture of affection and gratitude,” she explained.
This forced kiss has aroused many reactions in Spain. Spanish sports minister Miquel Iceta also called it unacceptable. Anna Caula, secretary general for sports of the autonomous government of Catalonia, has called for the resignation of Luis Rubiales. She speaks of “a harsh gesture normalizing unacceptable attitudes.”
The forced kiss of the president of the federation is part of a heavy context for the Spanish selection. Players have been denouncing for months the methods deemed “dictatorial” by coach Jorge Vilda, who enjoys the unwavering support of his president. Luis Rubiales, in office since 2018, was also accused of having organized orgies with Federation money last September.