Spanish football’s regional chiefs have become the latest group to call for the resignation of Luis Rubiales as president of the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF).
Rubiales is under fire for his behavior after Spain won the Women’s World Cup final when he kissed Jenni Hermoso on the lips.
It was announced on Monday that the RFEF had taken the extraordinary step of asking UEFA to suspend its teams from international competition in an apparent bid to save Rubiales’ place, with members of the Spanish government adding their voices to those calling for him to step down. .
A statement from the regional presidents said: “Following recent events and unacceptable behavior that has seriously damaged the image of Spanish football, the presidents request that Mr. Luis Rubiales immediately submit his resignation as RFEF president.
“We heartily congratulate the women’s football team on winning the World Cup. We appreciate the importance and legacy of success for Spanish sport.
“We express our admiration and gratitude to an inimitable group of players and congratulate all those who have built the growth of women’s football with determination over the years.
“We will urge the relevant authorities to carry out a deep and immediate organic restructuring in the strategic positions of the federation to give way to a new phase in the management of Spanish football.”
Earlier on Monday, Rubiales’ mother announced that she was on hunger strike over the “inhumane” treatment of her son, according to reports in Spain.
The 46-year-old Spanish football boss was provisionally suspended by FIFA on Saturday pending an investigation into his conduct in Sydney on August 20.
The president grabbed his crotch in the stadium’s VIP area to celebrate Spain’s win over England as he stood meters from Spain’s Queen Letizia and her teenage daughter.
FIFA suspended Rubiales for an initial period of 90 days. He and the RFEF were also ordered not to contact Hermoso directly or through intermediaries.
Hermoso accused the RFEF of a “manipulative, hostile and controlling culture” as a total of 81 players signed a letter saying they would not accept invitations to the national team while Rubiales remained in place.
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