The game’s finally up for Spanish football chief Luis Rubiales after kiss

The already suspended Luis Rubiales submits his resignation after a backlash after forcibly kissing midfielder Jenni Hermoso.

Luis Rubiales kisses Jennifer Hermoso in Sydney on August 20. Picture: Getty Image)

Spanish football federation president Luis Rubiales resigned from his post overnight on Sunday because of the scandal that erupted after he kissed a Women’s World Cup player on the lips.

And NSW Police said they were willing to help Spanish investigators probing the alleged sexual assault after the final in Sydney on August 20. “A report has not been referred to NSW Police. However, if received, officers will liaise with international authorities and assist where required,” a spokesperson said.

The already suspended chief sent his resignation to the federation’s interim president, he said in an open letter, and also ­explained his decision to eventually step down in a television ­interview.

“I’m going to (resign), yes, ­because I cannot continue my work,” Rubiales told television show Piers Morgan Uncensored.

“(Family and friends) say to me ‘Luis, you need to focus on your dignity and continue your life. If not you are going to damage people you love and the sport you love’.”

Rubiales, 46, sparked a worldwide backlash after forcibly kissing midfielder Jenni Hermoso during the medal ceremony following Spain’s World Cup ­triumph in Sydney on August 20.

After he refused to resign FIFA provisionally suspended him for 90 days, while Spanish public prosecutors filed a lawsuit against him for sexual assault and coercion earlier last week.

Hermoso, 33, had filed a complaint at the National Court last Tuesday, formally accusing ­Rubiales of sexual assault.

In an open letter published by Rubiales on Sunday night, he said he had informed the federation he was also stepping down as a vice-president of European football governing body UEFA.

“After the swift suspension carried out by FIFA, plus the rest of the procedures opened against me, it is evident that I will not be able to return to my position,” Rubiales says in the letter.

Rubiales, who insists the kiss was consensual, said he did not want Spanish football to be hurt by “such a disproportionate campaign” against him.

The chief’s mother, Angeles Bejar, went on a hunger strike in protest against the treatment of her son, locking herself in a church on August 28. However, two days later she was taken to hospital because she was feeling unwell.

Spanish politicians quickly responded to Rubiales’ decision.

“The feminist country is ­advancing faster and faster,” said Second Deputy Prime Minister Yolanda Diaz on X, formerly Twitter.

“The transformation and improvement of our lives is inevitable. We are with you, Jenni, and with all women.”

Spanish Equality Minister Irene Montero wrote “It’s Over” on X, a slogan used by Hermoso and her fellow players in protest against Rubiales.

Over 80 players went on strike from the women’s side in protest after Rubiales’ fierce ­defensive speech following the incident, in which he railed against “false feminism” and said he would not step down.

The players said they would not return until the leadership of the Spanish football federation was changed. Controversial women’s coach Jorge Vilda was sacked on Tuesday.

AFP