FIFA has launched disciplinary proceedings against the president of the Spanish Football Federation, Luis Rubiales, over his conduct during the Women’s World Cup final on Sunday.
He had earlier grabbed his member while celebrating after the final whistle.
FIFA will consider whether these actions constitute breaches of Article 13 of its disciplinary code, relating to offensive conduct and fair play.
“FIFA reiterates its unwavering commitment to respecting the integrity of all individuals and strongly condemns any conduct contrary to this,” FIFA said in a statement.
According to the Disciplinary Code, officials are among those who must “comply with the principles of fair play, loyalty and integrity”.
It says disciplinary action can be taken against anyone who “violates basic rules of proper behaviour”, “insults a natural or legal person in any way, in particular by using gestures, gestures or abusive language” or “acts in a way that brings sport”. Football and/or FIFA to discredit it.
Rubiales celebrates after the final whistle in the VIP area of Stadium Australia, as he stands near Queen Letizia of Spain and her 16-year-old daughter.
He then kissed Hermoso on the lips after she was presented with the winner’s medal on the podium.
Rubiales apologized for the kiss on Monday but the Spanish prime minister Pedro Sanchez said it was “not enough”. Second Deputy Prime Minister Yolanda Diaz joined those calling for her resignation.
Futpro, a union representing Hermoso, said The incident should not go unpunished The 33-year-old said the union would “defend my interests” on the matter.
The Pachuca player, who has 101 caps, initially said on Instagram that she “didn’t like” Rubiales’ actions, but a later statement on her behalf defended him.
The Spanish Football Federation has called for an extraordinary general assembly to be held on Friday “urgently”.
