FIFA opened a disciplinary case against Spanish football president Luis Rubiales on Thursday, August 24, for his behavior at the Women's World Cup final. The football body's disciplinary committee will weigh if Rubiales violated "the basic rules of decent conduct" and "behaving in a way that brings the sport of football and/or FIFA into disrepute."
Rubiales kissed Spain player Jenni Hermoso on the lips during the trophy and medal ceremony on Sunday after the country's 1-0 win over England in Sydney, Australia. Minutes earlier, Rubiales grabbed his crotch as a victory gesture in the exclusive section of seats with Queen Letizia of Spain and 16-year-old Princess Sofia standing nearby.
Hermoso has said she did not like the kiss and the national players' union representing her – which Rubiales once led – called Wednesday for his conduct to not go unpunished. "We are working to ensure that acts such as those we have seen never go unpunished, that they are sanctioned and that the exemplary measures are adopted to protect women footballers from actions that we believe are unacceptable," the statement said.
Spain's women's football league, Liga F, also called for Rubiales to be sacked. Rubiales, 46, initially attacked his critics before eventually apologizing but the criticism of his behavior has not abated. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said Rubiales had an "unacceptable gesture" and called his apology "insufficient" and "inappropriate."
FIFA responded Thursday. "FIFA reiterates its unwavering commitment to respecting the integrity of all individuals and strongly condemns any behavior to the contrary," the football body said. FIFA gave no timetable for a ruling. The body's disciplinary judges can impose sanctions on individuals ranging from warnings and fines to suspensions from the sport.