FIFA begins disciplinary processes against Spanish federation president

Due to his behaviour on Sunday, FIFA has begun an investigation against Luis Rubiales, the president of the Spanish football federation.

After Spain defeated England, Rubiales gave forward Jenni Hermoso a kiss on the lips.

At the final whistle, he earlier grasped his crotch with joy.

If those behaviors violate Article 13 of its disciplinary code, which deals with offensive behavior and fair play, Fifa will investigate.

FIFA issued a statement saying that it was “reiterating its unwavering commitment to respecting the integrity of all individuals and strongly condemning any behavior to the contrary.”

The disciplinary code states that among those who must “comply with the principles of fair play, loyalty, and integrity” are officials.

Anyone who “violates the fundamental principles of decent conduct,” “insults a natural or legal person in any way, especially by using offensive gestures, signs, or language,” or “behaves in a manner that brings the game of football and/or Fifa into disrepute” is subject to disciplinary action, it states.

When the final whistle blew, Rubiales was standing next to Queen Letizia of Spain and her 16-year-old daughter in the VIP section of Stadium Australia.

After Hermoso received her victory medal on the podium, he gave her a kiss on the lips.

Pedro Sanchez, the Spanish prime minister, said Rubiales’ apology for the kiss on Monday was “not enough,” and second deputy Prime Minister Yolanda Diaz joined the chorus of people clamoring for his resignation.

The act should not go unpunished, according to Hermoso’s union, Futpro, and the 33-year-old promised that the union will “defend my interests” in the case.

The 101-cap Pachuca player initially stated on Instagram that she “didn’t like” Rubiales’ conduct, but then issued a statement in his defense.

A special general assembly has been scheduled for this Friday “as a matter of urgency” by the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF).