At the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand, Spain claimed their first-ever victory. In the aftermath, Rubiales kissed a player from his country unexpectedly, leading to widespread condemnation. On the 21st (local time), Rubiales released a video statement saying, “I made a mistake,” and “It was an action taken without malice in a moment of overwhelming joy.”
He added, “The repercussion has been big outside. That scene hurt many people,” and “For this, I must apologize. Through this incident, I am reminded that as the head of an institution, I must act more prudently.”
Furthermore, he lamented, “It’s even more sorrowful considering this World Cup victory is the most significant achievement in the history of Spanish women’s football. While we should be celebrating Spain’s second-ever World Cup win, this incident has 메이저사이트 순위overshadowed it.”
During the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup award ceremony held at Stadium Australia in Sydney, Rubiales was seen grabbing the face of Jennifer Hermoso and kissing her. This incident was broadcast live worldwide, igniting a major controversy. Hermoso, who played in all seven matches for Spain and scored three goals, later expressed her discomfort about the incident on social media.
Despite the team’s historic 1-0 win over England in the finals, Rubiales’ unexpected action during the award ceremony left a global audience in shock.
Spanish media also criticized Rubiales for his actions. Marca reported that, “Apart from the national ecstasy, many fans were profoundly shocked by the forced kiss on Hermoso.” El País criticized with a piece titled, “Hermoso didn’t like Rubiales’ kiss, neither did we,” pointing out that such actions are an infringement.
Irene Montero, Spain’s Minister of Equality, commented via social media, “Do not consider a kiss without consent as something normal,” adding that “This is part of the sexual violence women face daily.”
The New York Times pointed out that “The sexism still토토사이트 순위 prevalent in football was broadcasted to the entire world.”
Amid the expanding controversy, Rubiales apologized in an attempt to control the situation. Hermoso also contributed to the damage control, stating through the Spanish Football Federation, “It was an expression of intimacy,” and “It was a natural act in the joy of winning the World Cup. I have no issues with the president.”