FIFA has launched disciplinary proceedings against the president of the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), Luis Rubiales after a video emerged of him kissing a key player on Spain's World Cup-winning team.
"The events may constitute violations of articles 13, paragraphs 1 and 2 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code," FIFA stated.
Article 13 deals with violations of game laws, such as violating the basic rules of decent conduct. Rubiales now faces renewed criticism from two of Spain's main women's soccer organizations for his behavior after the success of La Roja's World Cup.
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The union representing women's soccer players in Spain has demanded that the country's football federation leader be punished for kissing Jennifer Hermoso on the lips after the team's World Cup victory, vowing to fight "machismo and sexism."
Professional Soccer Players (FUTPRO) said in a statement Wednesday that It is essential that their team, the current world champion, is always represented by figures who project values of equality and respect in all areas.
Rubiales was seen on camera forcibly kissing the striker following her team's 1-0 win over England on Sunday.
Hermoso, 33, who previously stated that she didn't like the kiss and didn't expect it, issued a statement Wednesday stating that the union and her agency TMJ will defend her interests and act as spokespersons.
In a statement, FUTPRO pledged to combat "sexual harassment or abuse, machismo, and sexism."
According to Amnesty International representative Carlos de las Heras, the organization also backed Hermoso and her written complaints, pushing RFEF to "take immediate action, adequately investigate the events, and focus on protecting the player.
Amnesty stated that if the RFEF does not act, it will petition the Spanish High Council of Sport (CSD).
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