Luis Rubiales Resigns as Spanish RFEF President Over Kissing Scandal

Madrid – Luis Rubiales, on Sunday has decided to resign from his role as the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) after lip-kissing Jenni Hermoso in the Women's World Cup final. 

Rubiales announced his resignation in a message posted on X - formerly known as Twitter. 

"I had informed Pedro Rocha, who has been acting as RFEF President while i was suspended that i'm resigning," wrote Rubiales on X. 

“After the rapid suspension carried out by FIFA, plus the rest of proceedings open against me, it is evident that I will not be able to return to my position. Insisting on waiting and holding on is not going to contribute to anything positive, neither to the federation nor to Spanish football," Rubiales added. 

He also said: "I have faith in the tuth and I will do everything in my power to prevail," 

“My daughters, my family and the people who love me have suffered the effects of excessive persecution, as well as many falsehoods, but it is also true that on the street, more and more every day, the truth is prevailing," 

A clip of Rubiales being interviewed by Piers Morgan has also been released, in which he said: “About my resignation – yes, I am going to do (it). Of course I cannot continue my work,"

“My father, my daughters, I spoke with the and some friends very close to me, and they say to me “Luis, now you have to focus on your dignity and to continue your life, because if not, probably you are going to damage people you love, and the sport you love. In this situation now, (it is) the thing I have to do," as quoted from Independent site. 

As information, Rubiales kissed the player on the lips during the thropy presentation after Spain's victory over England in last month's World Cup final, but Jenni Hermoso said the kiss was not consensual. 

FIFA suspended Rubiales pending an investigation into his behaviour, and Hermoso submitted a complaint to the national prosecutor's office, which is now with Spain's high court.