LAGOS, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA) – Luis Rubiales has officially resigned from his position as the RFEF President, marking the culmination of the controversy surrounding his kiss with Jenni Hermoso after Spain’s 2023 World Cup victory.
Rubiales acknowledged that he could no longer continue his role amid growing calls for his departure following the incident that occurred after Spain’s 1-0 final win over England on August 20.
In an interview on the Talk TV show Piers Morgan Uncensored, Rubiales expressed his deep affection for his daughters and their influence on his decisions.
He stated: “I love my daughters so much, and they love me so, so much. I am very happy and very proud of them; they are very dear to me.
“Regarding my resignation, yes, I am going to do [that]. I am going to [resign] because I cannot continue my work.”
When asked about the pivotal moment that led to his decision, Rubiales explained, “My daughters, I spoke with them, and they know it’s not a question about me.
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“They say to me, ‘Luis, you have to focus on your dignity and continue your life. If not, probably you are going to damage people you love and the sport you love.'”
Rubiales confirmed his resignation in a separate statement, performing a U-turn after initially resisting stepping down last month and asserting that the kiss with Hermoso was “mutual” and “consensual.”
The 46-year-old has formally submitted his resignation to the RFEF’s acting president, Pedro Rocha, who was appointed as Rubiales’ interim replacement after FIFA suspended him for 90 days.
Rubiales has also relinquished his position as vice president of UEFA’s executive committee.
His statement read, “After the quick suspension carried out by FIFA, plus the rest of open proceedings 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.”
This development comes in the wake of a ‘sexual assault and coercion‘ lawsuit filed against Rubiales by the Spanish prosecutor, potentially leading to criminal charges.
A total of 81 Spanish players, including all 23 Women’s World Cup winners, pledged not to play for the national team while Rubiales remained in office.
Many of Jorge Vilda’s coaching staff followed suit, and Vilda was relieved of his duties after facing criticism for applauding Rubiales during a press conference where the former president announced his refusal to resign.
