A Shocking Incident at the World Cup Final
On a jubilant night in Sydney, where Spain triumphed over England to claim the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, an unexpected and deeply troubling incident overshadowed the victory. Former Spanish football federation head Luis Rubiales was caught on camera kissing Spain’s star striker, Jenni Hermoso, without her consent during the trophy presentation ceremony. The incident, witnessed by a global television audience, sparked a nationwide furore about sexism in Spain and sent shockwaves through the women’s game. The Spanish women’s team, who had just achieved a historic victory, found themselves at the center of a broader conversation about respect and consent in sports.
The Court’s Ruling and Its Implications
On Thursday, Spain’s High Court found Rubiales guilty of sexual assault and ordered him to pay a fine of 10,800 euros ($11,300). The ruling also imposed a no-contact order, prohibiting Rubiales from coming within 200 meters of Hermoso and banning him from communicating with her for one year. Additionally, Rubiales was ordered to pay Hermoso 3,000 euros in compensation. This verdict is a significant step in addressing the culture of sexism and the lack of respect for women in sports. It sends a clear message that such behavior will not be tolerated, and it serves as a deterrent for future incidents.
Sarina Wiegman’s Stand
England women’s football manager Sarina Wiegman, speaking to ITV on Friday, expressed her support for the Spanish players and emphasized the need for further cultural change. "That we have to talk about this again is good because it changes society, and I stand with the Spanish players," Wiegman stated, moments after England’s 1-1 Nations League draw with Portugal. "They have so much courage to do this and it does make change, but more change needs to be made." Wiegman, a staunch advocate for women’s rights in sports, dedicated her 2023 UEFA Women’s Coach of the Year award to the Spanish women’s team, recognizing their bravery and the impact of their actions.
The Impact on the Women’s Game
The incident and its aftermath have had a profound impact on the women’s game. The Spanish women’s team, who had just achieved a monumental victory, found their celebration marred by the actions of their former federation head. The midfielder, Jenni Hermoso, described the kiss as a stain on one of the happiest days of her life. This incident not only overshadowed their World Cup success but also brought to light the persistent issues of sexism and lack of respect for women in sports. The broader conversation it sparked is essential for creating a more inclusive and respectful environment for all athletes.
FIFA’s Stance and the Appeal
World soccer governing body FIFA had banned Rubiales in October 2023 for three years from any football-related activity. Rubiales appealed this decision, but the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) dismissed his appeal. The CAS panel determined that Rubiales’s behavior at the trophy ceremony "constituted multiple and serious violations of the FIFA Disciplinary Code" and saw no reason to consider the sanction disproportionate. This decision by FIFA and the CAS underscores the seriousness with which such incidents are being taken at the highest levels of international sports.
Moving Forward: The England vs. Spain Rematch
As England prepares to host Spain in the Nations League at Wembley Stadium on Wednesday, the incident continues to loom large. The match, a rematch of the 2023 World Cup final, will be a significant moment for both teams. For the Spanish women’s team, it is an opportunity to continue their journey of advocating for change and respect in the sport. For England, it is a chance to show solidarity and support for their fellow athletes. The football community, led by managers like Sarina Wiegman, is committed to fostering a culture of respect and equality, ensuring that such incidents do not overshadow the achievements of women in sports.
