La Liga president Javier Tebas voiced deep concerns on Monday about the impact on Spanish football following the resignation of Luis Rubiales, once head of the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF). He suggested the damage could be more serious than the immediate events imply, hinting at consequences that extend far beyond a single leadership change.
He noted a transition from a suspended president to a resigned one, with the ongoing question of who should lead and what direction the federation will take. Tebas emphasized that the focus should shift to broader issues affecting the sport, including the reputation and global perception of Spanish football. In a media statement delivered after the unveiling of the Football-based Souvenir Workshops initiative at the employers’ association’s headquarters, he underscored the seriousness of the situation and the need to address the deeper wounds inflicted on the game.
The leader known for his outspoken stance said he was surprised by Rubiales’ fall, remarking that he had anticipated a major development at some point. He criticized the actions that led to the resignation, arguing that certain matters within the RFEF were not given the attention they deserved. Tebas suggested that Rubiales had taken things to the extreme and that a single day of controversy could spill into long-running repercussions for Spanish football.
Save national football
Returning from a trip to Latin America, Tebas said that the issue is not solely about the resignation but about how the situation is managed beyond Spain. He warned that the damage could be immense and described Rubiales’ resignation as the biggest news Spain has seen in digital media history. While Rubiales’ interview with Sky looms, Tebas chose to focus on how football will ultimately unfold and called for concerted efforts to protect the sport at the grassroots and professional levels alike, acknowledging that the cost of safeguarding national football could be high.
While Rubiales may have pushed the boundaries, Tebas argued that those involved should understand that escalation carries consequences. The problem, he said, lies in pushing actions to the highest level without regard for the outcomes. Although La Liga does not hold voting power in RFEF elections, Tebas asserted that regional authorities should lead and that there is no preferred candidate yet, regardless of what others write. He urged forgiveness not to be treated as a cure-all and pressed for measures that prevent a recurrence of the same issues.
On the topic of governance, Tebas expressed a desire for the new RFEF president to foster better relations with La Liga. The aim is not domination but collaboration, with both bodies benefiting from a sustainable and synergistic growth model for Spanish football. He also considered the potential implications of the 2030 World Cup and warned that the ongoing debate could shape how other nations respond to hosting opportunities. He asserted his commitment to safeguarding Spain’s football reputation by staying open, transparent, and proactive in preventing similar crises in the future.
Regarding the actions of the Supreme Sports Council, Tebas recognized the need to handle a complex situation with clear, responsible steps. The focus, he said, should be on proposing a development path that gives the federation clearer accountability for who is responsible for Spanish football while ensuring that governance remains robust and credible.
Support for the interim leadership
Turning to the interim president, Pedro Rocha, Tebas expressed a wish for prudent leadership during the transition when regional federations assume greater responsibility. He stressed that no drastic steps would be taken, but he encouraged open communication and cooperation, reinforcing that the RFEF is the home for Spanish football and welcoming dialogue when stakeholders feel the need to engage.
Tebas also commented on a controversial on-field gesture by a young player, distinguishing it from the broader conduct of the federation’s leadership. He argued that while missteps by players can be addressed through sports etiquette and discipline, the governance crisis is far more consequential. He warned that a poor example set by leaders could tarnish the game more deeply than isolated incidents by players.
Another issue on the horizon is the ongoing strike within the F League. Tebas described the dispute as a hurdle to growth, arguing that football needs to advance gradually and responsibly. While new sponsorships and television rights present opportunities, prolonged strikes threaten to derail progress. He called for a balanced approach that fuels development without sacrifices that could undermine long-term gains.