Overview of the Rubiales Salary Controversy and the Jenni Hermoso Kiss Incident
Luis Rubiales, head of the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), drew attention not only for his leadership of the federation but also for public statements and the salary package that came under scrutiny. In 2022, his gross annual salary was reported at 675,761 euros, reflecting a rise of 41,000 euros from the prior year. He also received a housing allowance of 3,000 euros per month, totaling 36,000 euros each year. These figures prompted comparisons, with observers noting that Rubiales earns a salary nearly four times that of Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez.
Should Rubiales resign over the kiss incident with Jenni Hermoso?
- Yes, both kisses and gestures were inappropriate
- No, the act was not that serious
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Rubiales’s surprise salary approval occurred at the RFEF General Assembly in May 2022. The resolution passed with 83 votes in favor and one abstention. In discussing the salary, Rubiales stated that some compare his role to that of the Head of Government, yet he viewed RFEF as a private sports institution. He described himself as a winner in both numbers and proportion and pledged to press forward, defending their position against what he described as misinformation and manipulation.
The spotlight on Rubiales intensified after an incident at the medal presentation following a World Cup victory by the Spanish women’s national team. Jenni Hermoso, the team captain, was kissed by Rubiales on stage, an image that circulated globally and drew widespread attention to the federation’s leadership. Rubiales later said the moment was natural and without malicious intent from either side and issued a video apology.
Jenni Hermoso did not participate in Rubiales’s apology video, while Vilda coordinated with the family
Meanwhile, the Deputy Prime Minister of Spain commented publicly on the controversy. He appeared in media reports after a meeting with King Felipe VI as part of ongoing talks about potential leadership candidates. He labeled the kiss a serious misstep and emphasized the need for further actions beyond apologies, signaling that more steps would be necessary to address the issue.