Amidst the escalating controversy within Spanish football, the spotlight has turned to potential legal action by the Spanish football federation concerning the content of a press release issued by the Futpro union. The focal point of this development stems from statements made by Jenni Hermoso about Luis Rubiales. The incident under scrutiny occurred after Rubiales, steadfastly resisting calls to step down, kissed Hermoso on the lips following Spain’s victory against England in the Women’s World Cup held in Sydney.
Hermoso, in her remarks released on Friday, made it clear that she did not grant her consent for the kiss in question. Contrarily, the federation has cast doubt on her version of events, pointing to compelling evidence that aligns with the president’s account.
Representing Hermoso, the players’ union, Futpro, issued a statement that included her clarification. It noted that she had no intention of lifting the president during their embrace on the podium. In response to these statements, the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) and President Rubiales have voiced their intent to address what they perceive as potentially false information, possibly originating from either Hermoso’s representative or Hermoso herself.
Aiming specifically at the content of the press release from the Futpro union, the Spanish Football Federation plans to embark on a legal course of action. The federation deems the content of this release to be deeply concerning and is poised to take the necessary legal steps to address the matter appropriately.
Luis Rubiales responded to the ongoing developments, stating, “The federation believes in honesty and truthfulness. The legal action is a response to what we view as a misrepresentation of the facts in the public sphere. We aim to ensure that accurate information prevails.”
Meanwhile, Jenni Hermoso responded with resolve, asserting, “I stand by my version of events. My intention is to shed light on a situation where I felt uncomfortable and disrespected. I believe in accountability and transparency.”
The unfolding narrative has sparked a unified stance from 81 female players, who have jointly declared their decision to abstain from representing Spain’s national team until Luis Rubiales relinquishes his role as president.
