World football’s governing body, FIFA, has opened disciplinary proceedings against Spanish Football Federation president, Luis Rubiales, for his behaviour at Sunday’s Women’s World Cup final.
Rubiales kissed Spanish forward, Jenni Hermoso, on the lips after Spain beat England to lift the World Cup.
He earlier grabbed his crotch as he celebrated at the final whistle.
FIFA will look at whether those actions constitute violations of Article 13 in its disciplinary code, concerning offensive behaviour and fair play.
“FIFA reiterates its unwavering commitment to respecting the integrity of all individuals and strongly condemns any behaviour to the contrary,” it said in a statement.
According to the disciplinary code, officials are among those that must “comply with the principles of fair play, loyalty and integrity.”
It said disciplinary measures can be brought against anyone “violating the basic rules of decent conduct”, “insulting a natural or legal person in any way, especially by using offensive gestures, signs or language” or “behaving in a way that brings the sport of football and/or Fifa into disrepute”.
Rubiales’ celebration at the final whistle was in the VIP area of Stadium Australia, while he was standing near Queen Letizia of Spain and her 16-year-old daughter.
He then kissed Hermoso on the lips after she was presented with her winner’s medal on the podium.
Rubiales apologised for the kiss on Monday, but Spain’s Prime Minister, Pedro Sanchez, said that was “not enough” and second deputy prime minister, Yolanda Diaz, joined those calling on Rubiales to resign.
FUTPRO, a union representing Hermoso, said the incident should not go unpunished, and the 33-year-old said the union would “defend” her interests in the matter.
The Pachuca player, who has earned 101 caps, had initially said on Instagram she “didn’t like” Rubiales’ actions, but a statement released later on her behalf defended him.
The Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) has called an extraordinary general assembly to be held on Friday “as a matter of urgency” over the matter.
