Spanish Football Legend Andrés Iniesta Criticizes Federation President’s Conduct after Women’s World Cup Final
Spanish football icon Andrés Iniesta has joined the chorus of voices condemning the actions of Luis Rubiales, the President of the Spanish Football Federation. Iniesta expressed his belief that Rubiales’ kiss with player Jenni Hermoso after the Women’s World Cup final “has tarnished the image of Spanish football.”
Spanish Football Legend Andrés Iniesta-Image Source: Sky News
In a post on social media platforms, Iniesta, who currently plays for the UAE-based club Vissel Kobe, conveyed his sadness as a person, father of three daughters, husband, and football player. He expressed his dismay at the events surrounding “our football and the Spanish women’s national team.”
“I believe we cannot tolerate actions like the ones we witnessed, actions that have marred a great achievement like winning the Women’s World Cup,” Iniesta stated. “I can’t imagine how the entire national team feels right now, not being able to talk about the wonderful tournament they had and the beautiful game they have shown us all.”
“Instead, we had to endure a president clinging to his position, not acknowledging that his behavior was unacceptable and harmful to our country’s image and football around the world.”
Player Jenni Hermoso revealed that she did not agree to the kiss on her lips at any time, following their 1-0 victory over England in the final in Sydney, an act that Rubiales described as “mutual, joyful, and reciprocal.” Despite intense and unprecedented criticism, Rubiales has refused to resign.
Después de lo que ha pasado esta semana me gustaría transmitir mi tristeza, como persona, como padre de tres hijas, como esposo y como futbolista, ante los acontecimientos que estamos viviendo en nuestro fútbol y alrededor de la selección española femenina.
Creo que no podemos… pic.twitter.com/DYASzKXQuU
— Andrés Iniesta (@andresiniesta8) August 27, 2023
In solidarity with Hermoso, 80 players, including the entire national team that won their first-ever World Cup title, have refused to play for “La Roja” as long as the current federation leadership remains in place. Furthermore, the majority of the women’s national team’s coaching staff has tendered their resignations.
