Luis Rubiales says he will resign as president of the Spanish Football Federation over the scandal over kissing Spain forward Jenni Hermoso after the Women’s World Cup final.
He announced his decision in an interview on Piers Morgan Uncensored, saying: ‘I cannot continue my work,’ with a statement following shortly after.
Rubiales has been under intense pressure to resign from his post after kissing Hermoso on the lips without consent while Spain celebrated their World Cup triumph.
However, the 46-year-old had fiercely defended himself and refused to leave his role, though he has been suspended by FIFA.
The kiss and Rubiales’ behaviour since has received widespread criticism and condemnation with Hermoso recently filing an official complaint with Spanish authorities, meaning he could face criminal charges.
Over 80 Spanish players have announced that they would not play for their country until he left his position, and after several weeks the inevitable has happened – though he seems insistent that his version of events are still accurate.
‘After the quick suspension carried out by Fifa, plus the rest of open proceedings against me, it is evident that I will not be able to return to my position,’ Rubiales’ statement read.
BREAKING: Luis Rubiales has sensationally resigned as President of the Royal Spanish Football Federation following the scandal over him kissing Spain’s Jenni Hermoso at the Women’s World Cup Final. He revealed the news in a world exclusive interview for â¦@PiersUncensoredâ© pic.twitter.com/Kl2uQTOzqv
‘Insisting on waiting and holding on is not going to contribute to anything positive, neither to the federation nor to Spanish football.
‘I have faith in the truth and I will do everything in my power to prevail.
‘My daughters, my family and the people who love me have suffered the effects of excessive persecution, as well as many falsehoods, but it is also true that on the street, more and more every day, the truth is prevailing.’
He also added that he did not want to compromise Spain’s joint bid with Portugal and Morocco to host the 2030 World Cup.
As well as leaving his position with the Spanish FA he is also stepping down as vice president of UEFA.
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