Jennifer Hermoso issued a statement this Wednesday regarding the behavior of Luis Rubiales, who gave her a non-consensual kiss on the mouth after declaring himself world champion. “My Futpro union, in coordination with my TMJ agency, takes on the defense of my interests and acts as interlocutor on this matter,” stressed the player in the only statements she has made with the trophy since returning from Australia.
The letter expresses, on behalf of Hermoso, Futpro’s firm and clear condemnation of behavior that violates the dignity of women: “From our association, we call on the Royal Spanish Football Federation to implement the necessary protocols to guarantee the rights of our players and to accept “exemplary measures.” The Federation itself put a few words in Hermoso’s mouth last Monday that downplayed the event. And they spoke of the controversial kiss: “It was a completely spontaneous mutual gesture because of the immense joy that comes from winning a World Cup.” The President and I have a great relationship, his behavior towards us all was excellent and it was one natural gesture of affection and gratitude. A gesture of friendship and gratitude cannot be overturned, we won a World Cup and will not deviate from what is important.”
However, this statement seems to confirm information published by digital media Relevo, which claimed that these words were not written by Hermoso. The majority player union considers it essential that the team, the reigning world champion, is always represented by figures who uphold the values of equality and respect in all areas: “It is necessary to keep moving forward in the fight for equality, a.” The fight , which our players fought with determination, put us in the position we are in today.”
They also call on the Higher Sports Council (CSD) to actively support and promote the prevention and intervention of sexual harassment or abuse, machismo and sexism, within its powers. “From the union we work to ensure that acts like the ones we have seen never go unpunished, are sanctioned and appropriate action is taken to protect football players from acts that we consider unacceptable,” they say.
The players’ majority union is set to meet with the acting second vice-president of the government and Minister for Labor and Social Economy, Yolanda Díaz, next Monday for Rubiales’ actions to be “duly sanctioned”, which is very blunt on the matter.
The Minister of Culture and Sport, Miquel Iceta warned this Wednesday that the CSD will do so unless the RFEF takes action against Rubiales.
The women’s league also condemned Rubiales
The Professional Women’s Soccer League (Liga F) has also lodged a complaint with the President of the CSD, Víctor Francos, “for the very serious acts and conduct” of Luis Rubiales, requesting his disqualification as President of the RFEF. Of the competition, they complain about “an attitude that has been fought for decades, far removed from the values of our society”, which unfortunately “will forever remain associated with our women’s team”.
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