The Luis Rubiales Cringefest or: How One Man Singlehandedly Ruined the Spanish Women’s Soccer Team’s Win
Credit: Thorsten Frenzel/Pixabay
In an era of progress and empowerment, the world of sports continues to unveil disturbing displays of patriarchy and blatant misogyny. Despite it being the 21st century, men in power continue to act as though they can sidestep accountability and overshadow monumental moments with their unfettered actions. The recent Women's World Cup, a global celebration of women's soccer, was sadly marred by a single man's inappropriate behaviour, turning what should have been an inspiring narrative into a distressing headline.
Over the past month, soccer fans worldwide revelled in what has been described as the most exhilarating Women’s World Cup ever. Host countries Australia and New Zealand brilliantly showcased the talent, ded’ talent, dedication, and passion, highlighting the sport's power and influence.
Yet, the jubilation of Spain's World Cup victory was abruptly overshadowed by the Spanish soccer federation president, Luis Rubiales. Just 30 minutes post-final whistle, in a celebration that should have been centred around the players' hard-earned success, Rubiales chose to plant an unwanted and unsolicited kiss on Spanish star Jenni Hermoso.
Such actions are not mere accidents. They are explicit reminders of the inherent sexism within the framework of sports. The Spanish minister of equality, Irene Montero, rightfully termed this act "a form of sexual violence." After all, consent is not an abstract idea but a fundamental right.
However, the federation's response to the incident has been equally alarming. Instead of addressing the problem head-on, it issued a statement claiming the gesture was “totally spontaneous” due to the joy of the win. This blatant attempt to downplay the incident is evidence of the institution's deep-rooted issues. And it’s not the first instance of the federation's dismissive attitude. Last September, 15 players from Spain’s senior women's team expressed concerns regarding the coaching staff's practices. Instead of dialogues and solutions, they were met with punishments and roster rejections.
Yet, the controversy continues to intensify. Rubiales' mother, Ángeles Béjar, has begun a hunger strike in protest, claiming an “inhuman, bloodthirsty witch hunt” against her son. Rubiales' refusal to resign has also resulted in the resignation of 11 members of the women's team coaching staff. A preliminary sex abuse investigation has been initiated, and with the global community watching, the world awaits a fitting response.
Spain's Women's World Cup victory should have been a moment of national pride, an occasion to celebrate the players' skills and determination. Instead, it will be remembered as a glaring example of how women are often forced to contend with the inappropriate actions of men in power, even in moments of immense success and achievement. For the sake of soccer and the countless women who dedicate their lives to the sport, one can only hope for a swift and just resolution.