FIFA has imposed a three-year ban on Luis Rubiales, the former Spanish football federation president for behaving inappropriately again following the Women's World Cup final.
The ban stems from Rubiales' conduct during and after the final match, raising concerns over his inappropriate behavior towards players, particularly regarding a non-consensual kiss.
The FIFA disciplinary committee spared no words in condemning Rubiales' actions, stressing the sheer inexcusability of his behavior, especially considering his prominent standing within the football hierarchy.
Debbie Hewitt, the chairwoman of the Football Association, took centerstage, providing critical evidence of Rubiales' unsettling interactions with England players during the post-final ceremonies.
Hewitt's testimony detailed uncomfortable moments, highlighting instances where Rubiales reportedly touched and kissed England players without their consent. Her evidence underscored the discomfort not just among the English squad but also in the greeting gestures Rubiales displayed towards the Spanish players, which included inappropriate tapping and forceful kissing.
Despite resigning from his position shortly after the incident and initially vowing not to step down, Rubiales remains resolute in his denial of any wrongdoing. He vehemently insists that the kiss with Jenni Hermoso was consensual and intends to appeal the ban imposed by FIFA.
The controversy further intensified as Rubiales found himself in a legal quagmire, facing a judicial inquiry over a sexual assault complaint related to the incident involving Hermoso.
The clash between Rubiales' claims of consensuality and the stark findings and testimonies presented prolongs the scrutiny surrounding his actions and the repercussions he faces within the football governing body.