Rubiales refuses to resign after kissing Spanish player

Luis Rubiales hit out at “false feminism” and a “social assassination” of his character as he vowed to stay on as head of Spain’s football federation (RFEF) amid fierce criticism and a Fifa investigation for kissing Spain’s Jennifer Hermoso on the lips during the Women’s World Cup final trophy presentation.

In a passionate speech at an extraordinary general assembly of Spain’s football federation, the 46-year-old reiterated that he would not be forced out of his role by what he felt was a witch-hunt. “I will not resign,” he repeated emphatically. “I will fight this to the end.”

He characterised the events of the past five days as a “social assassination,” adding: “They are trying to kill me.”

The Fifa disciplinary committee on Thursday informed the 46-year-old that his actions in Sydney may have violated its disciplinary code after days of pressure on Rubiales, which involved strong rebukes from the Spanish prime minister Pedro Sánchez, the world player’s union Fifpro, and a number of leading figures in football. It was widely expected that Rubiales would resign.

In addition the Futpro union in Spain, which Hermoso has said is representing her interests in this case, had expressed its “firm and resounding condemnation” for behaviour “which violates the dignity of women”.

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