Spain men's team condemn Luis Rubiales after Jenni Hermoso kiss, express 'solidarity' with women's team

Spain’s men’s national football team have issued a statement condemning the "unacceptable" behaviour of Spanish football federation president Luis Rubiales.

Rubiales sparked controversy last month when he kissed Spanish player Jenni Hermoso on the lips during the trophy ceremony following Spain’s victory in the Women’s World Cup final.

Hermoso claimed that the kiss was not consensual, prompting widespread calls for Rubiales to be sacked.

Rubiales has said he will continue defending himself, but during a press conference ahead of the Spanish men’s team’s upcoming European Championship qualifiers, team captains Alvaro Morata, Rodri, Cesar Azpilicueta and Marco Asensio labelled Rubiales’ behaviour “unacceptable” in a statement delivered on behalf of the entire squad.

"Firstly, we would like to once again express our pride and our most sincere congratulations to the women's national team for winning the World Cup in Sydney," said the statement.

"A historic milestone full of meaning that will mark a before and after in Spanish women's football, inspiring many women with a priceless triumph. For this reason, we would like to express our regret and solidarity with the players who have seen their success tarnished.

“We want to reject what we consider unacceptable behaviour on the part of Mr. Rubiales, who has not lived up to the institution he represents.

“We firmly and unequivocally stand on the side of the values that this sport represents. Spanish football must be a driving force for respect, inspiration, inclusion, and diversity and must set an example with its behavior both on and off the field.

“Starting today, we face a crucial training camp for the future of Spanish football on our path to qualify for Euro 2024 with two matches against Georgia and Cyprus.

"We would like to focus on sporting matters from now on, considering the importance of the challenges ahead.”

Rubiales has been suspended from all footballing activities for 90 days by FIFA and is the subject of a misconduct case brought by Spain’s national sports tribunal (TAD).

The TAD ruled Rubiales committed a “serious offence” by kissing Hermoso, but stopped short of the “very serious offence” charge the government had requested in order for him to be suspended.

Rubiales has repeatedly refused to resign, and last week spoke publicly for the first time since he refused to step down during an extraordinary general assembly called by the RFEF.

The 46-year-old admitted that he had “made mistakes” but again insisted that the kiss was consensual.

He added: “I will continue to defend myself to prove the truth.”

Last week men’s team coach Luis de la Fuente apologised for applauding Rubiales during his speech, arguing that he and many of the other attendees were “overwhelmed” and “not prepared” for Rubiales’ unexpected refusal to resign.

The players selected in De La Fuente’s squad have not followed the lead of Real Betis striker Borja Iglesias, who made himself unavailable for selection until Rubiales is removed from his position.

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