Luis Rubiales, born in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria in 1977, has traveled with the Spanish national team from their World Cup debut in New Zealand to their recent campaign in Australia. He arrived a few days late due to flight delays and, before departing, visited a close friend facing health issues. “I came here and formed quick bonds with the squad,” he reflects.
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Maria Tikas, the journalist, profiles a moment when the president of the Royal Spanish Football Federation sits with SPORT and Prensa Ibérica at a Sydney hotel. Two days after the World Cup final—the most pivotal match in Spain’s history—this year’s crisis was overlooked by a mood of resolve.
Spain in the World Cup final. How does the federation president feel about it?
“So much emotion and joy,” he replies. “I trust this team deeply, though I am nervous and there is some uncertainty.”
The question about arriving on release day prompts this answer: “I have always believed in them and told them so. Jorge and his group did a fantastic job. The players are exceptionally skilled and confident. In recent games there has been a marked rise in determination and competitiveness, a trait that perhaps didn’t define the team before.”
He adds that the tactical performance against Sweden showcased a team that can threaten from set-pieces and that their on-field fight has grown stronger. The squad’s psychological and physical readiness, he notes, is aligned with the best moment to advance to the final.
When asked what changes he has seen since 2019, he points to the convergence of multiple generations of high-caliber players who are now playing together. He credits the staff’s leadership and the players’ willingness to listen and adapt as essential elements of the team’s evolution.
Regarding the concentration period, he describes maintaining some distance while staying connected. He keeps conversations open about how to improve, and admires the strong bond that has formed. He was able to connect quickly with the players and staff, keeping lines of dialogue clear.
Asked to detail the federation’s efforts beyond elections, he mentions a broad uplift: a more professional coaching setup, additional physiotherapists, a dedicated doctor and nutritionist, improved accommodations and training camps. A family reconciliation plan and an equality observatory have become valued components, alongside financial measures and a more robust support system. He recalls the challenges of the Palmerston pitch and how FIFA support helped address injury risks. When prompted about further steps, he says the federation’s focus remains on empowering the players’ quality and professionalism—vital factors in the potential to become world champions on merit.
Did the Federation mention competitions beyond the elections? He notes a notable improvement with more teams joining, and stresses the importance of how all events after the stadium dispute were handled. The federation hosted a grand show with top artists, which the players appreciated and returned to the match.
How does he explain Spain reaching the final amid ongoing events? He says the team avoids overthinking outcomes. Some players stay deeply committed to the jersey, while others seek counsel before acting. The federation listened to criticism, learned, and used that feedback to improve, which helped intensify the daily training focus.
He emphasizes the presence of top-quality players who want total inclusion in the national team. The squad is described as highly cohesive and dedicated, with leaders and mentors guiding younger teammates. The overall message is that Spain has assembled the strongest team in its history and stands close to a World Cup triumph on merit.
“We have twenty-three players who share strong bonds, respect the coaching staff, and understand their roles and the team’s identity”, he states. “Some players initially hoped for different outcomes, but now the focus is on performance. The federation has made significant changes to support the sport, and the players respond with commitment.”
In terms of leadership continuity, the president explains that a long-term strategic plan guides the women’s program, including pathways through European and world events. Adjustments to coaching and management were made to align the sport with both immediate goals and future championships. The aim is to be a World Cup semi-final or final team between 2024 and 2026, and early progress signals that the plan is ahead of schedule.
With Vilda’s contract in view, Rubiales notes the next steps but emphasizes the focus remains on the players and their development. He praises the 23 players who have fought hard for recognition and rights, highlighting the progress from earlier days when women’s football received far less support. He expresses pride in Spain’s current squad and their impact on women’s sport.
On the question of whether the president has a final word if Spain wins the World Cup, the reply centers on the unity of preparation: the team’s camp, meals, rest, and training routines were all aligned to deliver the best possible outcome. If a championship is earned, the celebration would be national but grounded, with humility guiding the celebration.
These reflections underline a shared belief: Spain’s national team has the talent and the leadership required to reach the pinnacle, driven by a culture of listening, improvement, and unwavering dedication to the sport.