Luis Rubiales, the former head of the Royal Spanish Football Federation, faced a suspension from duties and responsibilities at both national and international levels. The FIFA Disciplinary Board ordered a temporary withdrawal from all football-related activities, ruling that Rubiales should not engage in any football-related work during the initial ninety-day period while a disciplinary investigation proceeds. The decision also directed Rubiales and the Royal Spanish Football Federation to avoid direct or indirect communications that could influence the proceedings. This measure marks a formal break from leadership roles within the federation and related bodies for the duration of the interim period.
This suspension, which began immediately, extends for at least ninety days, or longer if the disciplinary process continues beyond that window, according to the commission’s statement. The ruling was issued by the FIFA Disciplinary Committee after a review of the case involving Rubiales, who was accused of actions that violated football governance norms. The committee asserted its authority to take precautionary steps under the FIFA Disciplinary Code to preserve the integrity of the investigation.
FIFA Disciplinary Committee temporarily suspended Rubiales from all football-related activities, a move announced to reinforce the seriousness of the allegations and to ensure due process while the case proceeds at both national and international levels. Rubiales steps away from the presidency of the federation and from any leadership duties within UEFA during the initial period, pending further developments in the disciplinary procedure.
Kinga Ivan Palacio, chair of the FIFA Disciplinary Committee, confirmed the temporary suspension under the powers granted by Article 51 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code. The decision is framed to maintain the discipline and orderly handling of the matter as it unfolds across platforms and jurisdictions within the sport’s governance structure.
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The decision from the highest football authority came a day after Rubiales stated that he had consented to a kiss involving a public figure and that he would not resign. The Spanish government filed two serious violations with the National Sports Council, but FIFA acted independently and intervened in the Rubiales case, underscoring the governing bodies’ commitment to governance and personal conduct standards in football. The incident resonated across the Spanish community, with local authorities and fans reacting in various ways as discussions about conduct and accountability intensified.
Support for the involved individuals, including Jenni Hermoso and others standing with her, expressed solidarity across segments of Spanish society. The event prompted debates on leadership, ethics, and the responsibilities of those in power within sport. Local councils and community groups observed heightened sensitivity to public order and the need to maintain a respectful environment around football-related events and personalities.
No contact with Jenni Hermoso
The FIFA Disciplinary Committee’s chair emphasized protecting the player’s fundamental rights and ensuring the proper conduct of the disciplinary process. The instruction directs Rubiales to refrain from contacting Ms. Hermoso or her immediate family through direct means or third parties as the case proceeds. This measure aims to prevent any interference with the player’s rights or the integrity of the investigation while safeguarding fair proceedings.
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The Disciplinary Commission reiterated its commitment to transparency and due process while withholding further procedural details until a final decision is rendered. The body underscored its dedication to respecting the dignity of all individuals involved and to condemning misconduct in the strongest terms. In the hours following the notification, the federation announced that an interim leadership arrangement was in place while the disciplinary file is processed, and a formal defense would be pursued within the appropriate authorities. The federation stressed its confidence that a thorough legal process would uncover the facts and establish accountability where warranted.