Luis Rubiales: Spanish Federation President hands in his resignation

In an open letter, Luis Rubiales confirmed he will step down from his role as the president of the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF).

Luis Rubiales has resigned from his position as the RFEF president. His decision came amid an ongoing investigation of his actions at the FIFA Women’s World Cup final.

On August 20, Rubiales planted an unwanted kiss on Spain forward Jenni Hermoso. The kiss has led to criminal charges of sexual assault and coercion against the 46-year-old, who also grabbed his crotch after the match.

FIFA has suspended him from all football-related activities for 90 days. Football’s leading governing body is conducting its own investigation. Last week, Hermoso made a criminal complaint of her own.

This led Rubiales to resign from his roles as the RFEF president and UEFA vice president. The Spaniard announced his decision in an interview with Piers Morgan on Sunday and addressed it again in an open letter.

“I have handed in my resignation to the acting president, Pedro Rocha,” Rubiales wrote.

“I have also informed him that I have done the same with my position at UEFA, so that a replacement for my role as vice president can be sought.

“After the suspension by FIFA, in addition to the rest of the proceedings against me, it is clear that I will not be able to return to my position.”

The motives behind the resignation

Previously, Rubiales had refused to hand in his resignation. The Spaniard maintains to this day that his kiss with Hermoso was consensual, despite the player insisting it was not.

However, to avoid further fallout for Spanish football and the RFEF’s bid to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup, Rubiales changed his mind.

“To insist on waiting [for an outcome] and clinging on to [my position] will not contribute to anything positive — neither for the RFEF nor Spanish football,” Rubiales added.

“There are powers that be that will prevent my return. I do not want Spanish football to be harmed by this disproportionate campaign [against me].

“I am taking this decision after having made sure that my departure will contribute to the stability that will allow both Europe and Africa to remain united in the dream of [co-hosting the World Cup in] 2030.”

The fallout from Rubiales’ actions led to the dismissal of Spain coach Jorge Vilda last week.

Despite everything, Rubiales remains steadfast in his belief in the truth. He insists he will do everything in his power to defend his name.

Spain, meanwhile, will begin their Women’s Nations League campaign on September 22 against Sweden.