Luis Rubiales, the head of the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), has come under criticism for kissing Jenni Hermoso, a player from the Spain Women’s national team, on the lips during the trophy presentation at the Women’s World Cup. The incident, captured in a viral image, occurred while Rubiales was presenting medals to the players.
The act drew negative attention from numerous individuals on social media, prompting Rubiales to respond to his critics by labeling them as ‘idiots’. When asked about the incident during an interview on Radio Marca, he stated, “The kiss with Jenni? There are idiots everywhere.” Rubiales dismissed the significance of the kiss, referring to it as a minor display of affection and emphasizing that the team’s championship victory should take precedence.
“We’re not here for bulls*. Me, with everything I’ve been through, more bulls* and more a**holes, no,” he added, showing his frustration towards those criticizing the incident.
Rubiales further urged that less attention should be given to the negative comments, emphasizing that the focus should be on positive aspects. He stated, “Let’s ignore it and enjoy the good stuff and don’t even tell me things about losers who can’t see (the positive). It is a thing without evil… There are more fools than windows. Let’s pay attention to those who are not fools. It is something without evil and nonsense.”
In response to the incident, Hermoso addressed the viral moment during an Instagram Live session, explaining that their emotions got the best of them and downplaying any deeper significance. She said, “It was an emotion of the moment, there is nothing beyond it. It will remain an anecdote. I’m sure that it won’t go any further.”
The RFEF also issued a statement regarding the incident, characterizing the kiss as a spontaneous and mutual gesture born out of the immense joy of winning a World Cup. The statement emphasized the celebratory nature of the act.
Spain’s victory over England in the Women’s World Cup final marked their first-ever world title in women’s football. This achievement also positioned Spain as the second nation to secure World Cup championships in both men’s and women’s football.
