FIFA steps in to suspend Rubiales

SPANISH FA President Luis Rubiales was suspended by FIFA last night after he threatened to sue the World Cup player he kissed on the lips during the medal ceremony.

- Berny Torre

The suspension came after England’s Lionesses slammed his refusal to back down and described the episode as “unacceptable actions allowed to happen by a sexist and patriarchal organisation”.

“Abuse is abuse”, the England team, led by Millie Bright, said in a joint statement, adding: “The behaviour of those who think they are invincible must not be tolerated.”

The scandal erupted after 46-yearold Rubiales kissed Jenni Hermoso on the lips after Spain beat England 1-0 in the final last Sunday.

It sparked outrage but he refused to quit, blaming “false feminism” for what he called a “social assassination”.

He claimed on Friday that the action was consensual, stating: “It was a spontaneous kiss. A consensual ‘peck’ is enough to get me out of here?”

But the 33-year-old forward stressed she did not consent. TV footage showed Rubiales with both hands holding her head as he planted a kiss.

Eighty-one female players, including Hermoso and her World Cupwinning colleagues, signed a letter saying they would refuse to play for Spain while he remained in post.