Spanish Football Boss Admits Error: Kissed World Cup Star
The president of the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), Luis Rubiales, apologized on Monday for kissing star player Jenni Hermoso on the lips after Spain won the Women’s World Cup.
After Hermoso received her medal, 45-year-old Rubiales kissed her on the lips, prompting an immediate global reaction.
Rubiales said in a video posted to social media by Spanish television, “Certainly I made a mistake, and I must acknowledge that.”
“It was done in a moment of extreme exuberance and without malice. Here, it appeared normal and natural, but outside it has produced a stir.”
“I have no choice but to apologize and to learn from this… and to take greater care when representing the federation,” he said, adding that he found the controversy “idiotic.”
On Monday, Spain’s sports minister demanded an apology from Rubiales.
“I think it’s unacceptable to kiss a player on the lips to congratulate her,” acting minister Miquel Iceta said on Spanish public radio.
Iceta stated, “The first thing he must do is provide explanations and apologize; this is the logical and reasonable thing to do.”
The minister added that although Sunday’s 1-0 victory over England in Sydney was “a moment of intense emotions,” public officials “must be extremely cautious because we are sending a message to society that equal rights are respected.”
‘Spontaneous’
Rubiales emphasized on Monday that he had a “magnificent relationship” with Hermoso.
Sunday, the player uploaded an Instagram video depicting the celebrations in the locker room, in which she responded to teasing from teammates by saying, “I didn’t like it, eh?”
Later on Sunday, the RFEF published Hermoso’s quotations.
Hermoso was quoted as saying, “It was a spontaneous mutual gesture because of the immense joy that winning the World Cup brings.”
“The president and I have an excellent rapport. It was a natural expression of devotion and appreciation in light of his exemplary behavior toward us all.
We have won the World Cup, and we will not deviate from our focus on what is essential.
The World Cup preparations for Spain were thrown into disarray last September when 15 players notified the RFEF via email that they did not wish to be considered for selection.
Their objection was primarily directed at coach Jorge Vilda and his methods, including the assertion that he was too strict.
Only three of the 15 players endorsed by Rubiales were recalled for the World Cup.
Spanish Football Boss Admits Error: Kissed World Cup Star