Luis Rubiales: Who He Is and Why He’s Always in the Headlines

If you follow soccer news, the name Luis Rubiales pops up a lot. He’s the former president of the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) and a former player turned administrator. Rubiales started his football career as a defender for teams like Real Madrid Castilla and Levante, but he never made a big splash on the pitch. After hanging up his boots, he moved into politics and football management, eventually winning the RFEF presidency in 2018.

From Player to RFEF President

Rubiales’ rise was fast. He used his connections in the Spanish sports world and a knack for networking to climb the ladder. As RFEF chief, he pushed for higher wages for national team players, backed new youth programs, and tried to modernise the federation’s image. Critics say many of his decisions were more about personal brand than real progress, but supporters point to the increased commercial deals and a stronger voice for Spain in UEFA meetings.

The 2023 World Cup Kiss Scandal and Aftermath

Everything changed during the 2023 Women’s World Cup when Rubiales kissed midfielder Jenni Hermoso on the lips right after Spain lifted the trophy. The kiss sparked worldwide outrage, with many calling it a clear abuse of power. Social media blew up, sponsors threatened to pull support, and legal complaints were filed. Rubiales claimed the kiss was a “gesture of joy,” but the backlash forced him into a media blackout and eventually a resignation announcement in September 2023.

Since stepping down, Rubiales has faced court cases, investigations by the Spanish sports authority, and a barrage of public criticism. He maintains his innocence, saying the incident was misinterpreted, and he’s fighting the charges. Meanwhile, the RFEF has been working to rebuild its reputation, appointing a new president and pledging better governance.

So where does Rubiales stand now? He’s largely out of the public eye, dealing with legal battles, while his former allies distance themselves. Some commentators think his story is a cautionary tale about power and accountability in sport, and others see it as a media circus that overshadows real issues in Spanish football.

If you’re curious about the latest updates, keep an eye on Spanish news outlets and official RFEF statements. The case is still open, and any new rulings could set a precedent for how football federations handle misconduct.

In short, Luis Rubiales is a former player turned federation boss whose legacy is now dominated by a single controversial moment. Whether he’ll ever return to a leadership role remains uncertain, but his story will likely be discussed in football circles for years to come.