Spanish football: The kiss, its fallout and Spain’s MeToo moment
Sep 12, 2023
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Discussion of the controversial kiss incident in Spanish football and its fallout, including resignation of the president. Exploring allegations of misused funds, scandal, and pay disparity in women's football league. Delving into the impact of recent events and sexual assault case in Spanish football.
The controversial kiss incident in Spanish football has raised important questions about misogyny and gender inequality within the sport.
The controversies surrounding Louis Rubiales, including allegations of corruption and inappropriate behavior, contributed to his resignation as the head of the Spanish Football Federation.
Deep dives
The Controversial Kiss and Resignation of the Head of Spanish Football Federation
The head of the Spanish Football Federation, Louis Rubiales, resigned following a controversial incident where he kissed Spain's midfielder, Jenny Hermoso, without her consent. The incident triggered a huge outpouring of anger in Spain and led to an investigation by FIFA. Rubiales initially denied any wrongdoing but later issued a qualified apology, claiming the kiss was consensual. However, Hermoso stated that she did not like it and considered herself a victim of aggression. This incident raised questions about misogyny in football and shed light on wider issues of gender inequality within the sport.
Louis Rubiales' Controversial Career and Corruption Allegations
Louis Rubiales, the former head of the Spanish Football Federation, had a controversial career with allegations of corruption and inappropriate behavior. He was accused of selling a Spanish super cup tournament deal to Real Madrid and arranging a commission payment to a Barcelona player's company. Additionally, his former colleague accused him of using federation funds to organize a sex party. The Spanish Federation denied these allegations, while Rubiales defended the deals as legitimate. These controversies, along with the kiss incident, contributed to Rubiales' downfall.
Jorge Vilda's Misconduct and Controversial Treatment of Women's Team
Jorge Vilda, the former coach of the Spanish women's team, was fired amid allegations of mistreatment and poor support for his players. The misconduct included emotionally abusing players, controlling their activity, and providing inferior facilities compared to the men's team. Fifteen players resigned in protest, and Vilda was eventually removed from his position. The mistreatment of female players in Spain raises broader issues of gender inequality within the sport.
Growing Momentum for Women's Rights in Spanish Football
The incidents involving Rubiales and Vilda have ignited a larger movement for women's rights in Spanish football. The Spanish government has condemned the misconduct and supported FIFA's actions. The players in the Spanish women's league have gone on strike to demand better pay and working conditions, inspired by the support received by Jenny Hermoso. These events reflect Spain's MeToo moment as women in the country increasingly speak out against sexism and inequality.
At the Women’s World Cup final last month, the president of the Spanish Football Federation kissed the national team’s star player - on the lips. She said it was not consensual and it sparked condemnation around the globe. Now that Luis Rubiales has resigned, what does it all mean - not just for football, but women’s rights on and off the pitch?
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Guest: Martyn Ziegler, chief sports reporter, The Times.
Host: Jane Mulkerrins.
Clips: BBC, TalkTV, ITV, SKY, ABC News, Real Federación Española de Fútbol, Jenni Hermoso, AFP, Reuters, Shescoresbanger.