In the fast-paced world of professional football, the spotlight often shines brightest on the players who grace the pitch. However, in August 2023, a different kind of drama unfolded within the football community, one that thrust a high-ranking official into the limelight for all the wrong reasons. Luis Rubiales, the suspended Spanish Football Association (RFEF) chief, found himself at the center of a controversy that sent shockwaves across the globe. In this article, we delve into the intriguing story of Luis Rubiales, exploring the events that led to his downfall, the media and public response, and the consequences he faced as a result.
Luis Rubiales Wife
Luis Rubiales, the former president of the Spanish Football Association, has maintained a private personal life, and details about his wife have largely remained out of the public eye. As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, there was limited information available about his spouse. It’s important to note that personal circumstances can change over time, so for the most up-to-date information about Luis Rubiales’ marital status and family, I recommend referring to reliable and current sources.
The Controversial Locker Room Incident
The story begins on August 20, 2023, following Spain’s triumph over the Netherlands in the Women’s World Cup final. A video surfaced, capturing an unexpected and controversial moment. In the heat of celebration, Luis Rubiales, then the president of the RFEF, shared an unanticipated kiss with Spain’s star player, Jenni Hermoso. What made this incident particularly shocking was Rubiales hinting at a future wedding in Ibiza with Hermoso during the celebration.
Is Luis Rubiales Married?
Given the locker room incident, the key query on everyone’s mind was, “Is Luis Rubiales married?” As of August 2023, the answer is a straightforward no. The former footballer had largely remained out of the public eye when it came to his personal relationships, further fueling the curiosity of fans and media alike.
Apology and Clarification
Amidst the uproar and backlash that followed the incident, Rubiales realized the gravity of the situation. On August 22, 2023, he publicly expressed his remorse, admitting to his error and emphasizing that his spontaneous act wasn’t intended to offend anyone. While Rubiales extended his apologies, Jenni Hermoso received support from the FUTPRO players’ union, highlighting the divisive nature of the incident.
Spain’s Celebratory Plans
Despite the chaos surrounding him, Rubiales had previously promised the Spanish Women’s squad a celebratory trip to Ibiza. However, with the ongoing controversy, the legitimacy of this promise came under scrutiny, leaving many wondering if the team would indeed embark on this trip.
Media and Public Response
The incident involving Luis Rubiales and Jenni Hermoso made headlines not only in Spain but also internationally. Prominent media houses, including The Guardian and The New York Times, extensively covered the controversy. What was particularly striking was the polarized public opinion. Some defended Rubiales’ actions as innocent, while others vehemently criticized them as inconsiderate.
The Resignation of Luis Rubiales
The turmoil surrounding Rubiales reached a tipping point when he resigned from his position as president of the Spanish soccer federation. This decision came after weeks of fierce criticism and a series of events that had tarnished his reputation beyond repair.
In a letter posted on social media, Rubiales stated, “Today, I notified the interim president at 9:30 pm, Mr. Pedro Rocha, that I have resigned as President of RFEF.” He went on to mention his resignation from his position as vice president of UEFA, citing concerns about the reputational damage the scandal could inflict on Spain’s joint bid to host the 2030 men’s World Cup.
Public Reaction and Consequences
Rubiales’ resignation was met with mixed reactions. The Spanish Minister of Equality, Irene Montero, succinctly stated, “It’s over,” signaling the relief felt by many following his departure. Yolanda Díaz, Spain’s second deputy prime minister, expressed support for Jenni Hermoso and the broader feminist movement, underlining the significance of this incident in the context of Spain’s evolving societal values.
The Impact on Spanish Soccer
The scandal involving Luis Rubiales sent shockwaves through Spanish soccer. It triggered a crisis, with the government pushing for his resignation and the RFEF making significant changes within its leadership. Jorge Vilda, the World Cup-winning manager, was replaced by Montse Tomé, marking a historic moment as the first woman to hold the position in Spanish national team history.
Furthermore, the incident ignited a conversation about the prevalence of “macho culture” in Spain, a country that had seen significant protests against sexual violence and sexism in recent years. Coaches from both Spain’s women’s and men’s teams resigned en masse, signaling a broader call for change within the federation.