Spain opens criminal investigation into Football Federation President for kissing female player

The presidents of the RFEF's member federations have demanded Mr Rubiales' resignation for "unacceptable behaviour" and called for a restructuring of the organisation. The 46-year-old official had previously insisted he would not resign and that the kiss was "consensual", but Hermoso objected.

Spain's national court said it had opened a preliminary investigation into Rubiales' kiss with Hermoso at the Women's World Cup final in Sydney, Australia, on August 20, as "it could constitute a sexual assault." The court said it would contact Hermoso to give her the opportunity to file a complaint within 15 days.

After Spain beat England in the final to win the 2023 Women's World Cup, Rubiales sparked a backlash by kissing Hermoso on the lips during the medal ceremony. The striker later said the incident left her feeling "hurt and like the victim of an assault" and that the kiss was "without my consent".

"Given Jennifer Hermoso's public statements, the conduct she suffered from (Luis) Rubiales was non-consensual. In order to proceed with a case of sexual assault, harassment or abuse, the injured party or their legal representative must file a complaint," the court said. Sources told AFP that if Hermoso decides not to file a complaint, it will make it difficult for prosecutors to continue investigating the case.

FIFA provisionally suspended Rubiales for 90 days last week while disciplinary proceedings are opened against him. But the president can resign if he complies with a request from the RFEF's 19 member federation presidents. "Following recent events and unacceptable behavior that has seriously damaged the image of Spanish football, the regional presidents demand that Luis Rubiales resign as president of the RFEF with immediate effect," the RFEF said after a meeting on August 28. RFEF members backed interim president Pedro Rocha.

Currently, 81 women's players, including Hermoso, refuse to play for Spain until the RFEF leadership changes. According to Spanish football legend Andres Iniesta, the women's team's victory at the recent World Cup was "tarnished" by Rubiales's behavior. Meanwhile, RFEF General Secretary Andreu Camps has reported to UEFA about the Spanish government's interference in sporting matters. This is against UEFA regulations and threatens the participation of clubs in continental competition.