Kiss Controversy: FIFA Bans Luis Rubiales from Football for Three Years

In a stunning turn of events, the world of football has been rocked by FIFA’s decision to ban Luis Rubiales from participating in any form of professional football for the next three years.

Rubiales, who had been embroiled in legal battles, found himself at the center of a controversy after he planted a kiss on the lips of Spanish forward, Jenni Hermoso, following Spain’s victory in the 2023 Women’s World Cup final.

Initial Ban and Disciplinary Procedures

Initially, FIFA had temporarily suspended Rubiales from football for 90 days, during his tenure as the president of the Spanish Football Association (FA).

However, the subsequent disciplinary procedures conducted by FIFA have led to a more severe penalty.

Guilty of Breaking FIFA’s Disciplinary Code

FIFA’s investigation found the 46-year-old Spanish football administrator guilty of violating Article 13 of its disciplinary code.

Rubiales had maintained that the kiss was “mutual” and “consensual,” while Hermoso claimed otherwise and filed a lawsuit, which has since been elevated to a criminal case.

Three-Year Ban Imposed

FIFA’s verdict, imposing a three-year ban on Rubiales from all football-related activities, is in connection with the events that transpired during the FIFA Women’s World Cup final on August 20, 2023.

This ban effectively sidelines him from the football world for a significant period.

Continuation of the Criminal Suit

It’s worth noting that even though FIFA has banned Rubiales, the criminal case against him in connection with the kissing scandal will proceed in a national court in Madrid.

During a previous hearing in September, the court had already issued an order restricting him from approaching within 200 meters of Hermoso.

FIFA’s Commitment to Upholding Decency and Integrity

FIFA, in its statement, reiterated its unwavering commitment to respecting and safeguarding the integrity of all individuals involved in the sport.

It underlined the importance of upholding the basic principles of decent conduct, signifying the seriousness with which it views Rubiales’ actions.

This decision, however, remains open to appeal before the FIFA appeal committee, adding a layer of complexity to an already convoluted situation.

The football world will be watching closely as this case unfolds, and its implications are sure to reverberate through the sport.

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