Mother of Luis Rubiales declares hunger strike

Following Luis Rubiales’ suspension, the Spaniard’s mother has declared a hunger strike over the treatment her son has endured.

The mother of Spanish Football Federation president Luis Rubiales is on a hunger strike over the “inhuman” treatment of her son.

This comes after FIFA suspended Rubiales for his conduct at the Women’s World Cup final. After Spain had defeated England 1-0 in Sydney, Rubiales seemingly grabbed his crotch in the stadium’s VIP area. The 46-year-old then kissed Jenni Hermoso on the lips during the trophy presentation.

Since then, Hermoso has stated that Rubiales kissed her without her consent. The midfielder, alongside 81 Spanish players, has signed a letter declaring that she won’t represent the women’s national team any further under the current system.

As a result, Rubiales will have to serve an initial 90-day suspension by FIFA. The Spaniard has apologized for his actions, but he refuses to resign. He has claimed to be a victim of “social assassination” amid demands for his resignation.

Now, Rubiales’ mother, Angeles Bejar, has reportedly locked herself in a church in his hometown of Motril. She is refusing to eat until the “inhuman hunt” against her son is over.

“We are suffering a lot for him,” Rubiales’ cousin Vanessa Ruiz told EFE.

“He has been judged before his time. [The media] don’t stop harassing us. We had to leave our house. We want them to leave us alone and for Jenni to tell the truth. It’s not fair.”

The Spanish women’s national team is scheduled to return to action in September. They’ll face Sweden in the UEFA Women’s Nations League.