Luis Rubiales Withdraws From The RFEF Presidential Seat In The Aftermath Of The Controversy In Kissing The Lips Of Women's National Team Player Jenni Hermoso

Luis Rubiales resigned from his position as President of the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) following the case of kissing Jenni Hermoso. (Photo: Instagram/@1libr)

JAKARTA Luis Rubiales announced his resignation from the post of President of the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) following the controversy over the kiss case with Spanish female national team player Jenni Hermoso.

Rubiales became the center of controversy after kissing Hermoso's lips without the player's consent during the medal awarding ceremony after the 2023 Women's World Cup final at the Australian Stadium, Sydney, August 20, 2023.

"After the rapid suspension carried out by FIFA, coupled with the ongoing legal process, it is clear that I will not be able to return to my position," Rubiales said in a statement quoted by LiveScore.

After being kissed by Rubiales, Hermoso said that the kiss was not done on a consensual basis. On the other hand, Rubiales claims otherwise.

Hermoso then filed a criminal charge earlier this week, which is now in Spain's top court. Prior to that FIFA had suspended Rubiales pending an investigation into his behavior.

Despite being criticized a lot, Rubiales had refused to resign from his position. However, he is now facing allegations of sexual harassment and coercion over the act.

However, Rubiales still holds his confidence that he is innocent in this case. He insisted that what he is currently facing is full of fakes.

"Stubborn to wait and survive will not make any positive contribution, neither to the federation nor to Spanish football. I have faith in the truth and I will do everything in my power to win," he continued.

"My daughters, my family, and the people who love me have suffered from excessive accusations, as well as many fakes, but it is also true that on the streets, the more and more truth is won," he added.

Rubiales was widely criticized for not kissing Hermoso, he also held his groin while celebrating from the stands.