After Rubiales’ forced kiss, FIFA president breaks his silence: “It should never have happened”

It was on Instagram that the president of the International Football Federation, Gianni Infantino, delivered his first reaction on Thursday, August 31, to the case of the forced kiss involving the boss of the Spanish Federation Luis Rubiales.

“This should never have happened,” finally wrote the leader, eleven days after the final of the Women’s World Cup, won by Spain, after which Mr. Rubiales forcibly kissed the Spanish international Jenni Hermoso during the presentation of the trophy.

“The well-deserved celebrations of these magnificent champions were spoiled by what happened after the final whistle. And this continued to happen over the next few days. »says Mr. Infantino.

“This should never have happened. But it happened and the disciplinary bodies of FIFA immediately assumed their responsibilities and took the necessary measures.”assures the boss of world football.

Luis Rubiales’ gesture caused a wave of indignation across the world. FIFA, which opened disciplinary proceedings against him on August 24, suspended him two days later from all football activities at national and international level for a period of 90 days, while the investigation continues.

“The disciplinary procedure will continue its legitimate course”observes Gianni Infantino in the message posted on Instagram, accompanying ten photos taken in the moments following the victory of La Roja where we see him with the Spaniards on the podium.

” On our side, he adds, we must continue to focus on how to further support women and women’s football in the future, both on and off the pitch. Defend true values ​​and respect players as people and for their fantastic performances”he continues.

Rubiales suspended but not yet gone

In Spain, the Spanish public prosecutor’s office announced on Monday the opening of a preliminary investigation into “sexual assault” targeting Luis Rubiales, who defends himself and speaks of a “consensual kiss”a version categorically denied by Jenni Hermoso.

The suspended president of the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) is also the subject of a complaint by the Spanish government to the Administrative Sports Court (TAD), the competent court in Spain in sports matters. If the TAD deems it admissible and decides to open proceedings, the government may then, within forty-eight hours, suspend him from his duties, until the case is judged on the merits.

The presidents of the regional Spanish football federations, summoned urgently on Monday by the interim president of the RFEF, have called for his immediate resignation.