Luis Rubiales Faces Mounting Pressure as Regional Presidents Call for Immediate Resignation

The regional presidents of the Spanish Football Association have demanded that Luis Rubiales step down immediately.

Rubiales has faced widespread backlash for kissing Spain forward Jenni Hermoso on the lips following Spain's 1-0 World Cup final victory against England eight days ago.

The Spanish football federation (RFEF) issued a statement stating that, following a meeting of the Commission of Presidents of Regional and Territorial Federations of the RFEF, unanimous agreements have been reached, which are now being made known to the football community and society. In light of recent events and the detrimental impact they have had on the reputation of Spanish football, the presidents are requesting the immediate resignation of Mr. Luis Rubiales as president of the RFEF.

Congratulations to the women's soccer team on their World Cup victory. We truly appreciate the significance and impact this success has on Spanish sport. We would like to convey our admiration and gratitude to this exceptional group of players, as well as extend our congratulations to all those who have tirelessly contributed to the growth of women's football over the years.

Moving forward, we strongly urge the relevant authorities to promptly implement a comprehensive and meaningful reorganization within strategic positions of the Federation. It is vital to pave the way for a new era of management in Spanish football.

After suspending Mr. Luis Rubiales, FIFA activated the Federation's internal protocols in response to the suspension. Furthermore, we have requested President Pedro Rocha to promptly retract the recent communication made by the Federation to FIFA and UEFA, which came to our attention today.

The RFEF remains dedicated to ongoing investment and equality policies in order to actively foster the growth of women's football.

Furthermore, the Presidents' Commission has unanimously endorsed Mr. Pedro Rocha to spearhead a new chapter, characterized by dialogue and reconciliation with all football institutions. We are ready to collaborate with the CSD and other involved organizations in building a joint bid for the 2030 World Cup.

Hermoso issued a statement on Friday expressing her vulnerability and stating that she had experienced an impulsive, sexist act which had occurred without her consent.

There was widespread anticipation that Rubiales would step down from his position as president of the Spanish FA on Friday. However, he surprised many by delivering a defiant speech, alleging that he was being unfairly targeted by "fake feminists" in a witch-hunt.

Result: Consequently, a meeting labeled as "extraordinary and urgent" was convened by the Spanish FA on Monday to assess the current state of the federation. FIFA has implemented a suspension on Rubiales, while the Spanish FA's appeal for the federation to be suspended by UEFA was dismissed. The Spanish FA's objection was based on their allegation that the Spanish government was unduly meddling in their internal matters.

In a strange twist, the crisis has unfolded in an unusual manner involving Rubiales' mother, Angeles Bejar. She has resorted to taking refuge in a church situated in their hometown of Motril and has embarked on a hunger strike as a response to the perceived unjust persecution against her son.

The Spanish prosecutors have initiated a preliminary investigation into Rubiales, as there are concerns that his act of kissing Hermoso might potentially be considered a crime of "sexual assault".

The Prosecutors' Office of the National Court had received six complaints but was waiting for a complaint from the player before opening an investigation.