‘I Made a Mistake’: Spanish FA President Luis Rubiales Apologizes for ‘Kiss’

Spanish football federation president Luis Rubiales landed himself in controversy for kissing Jenni Hermoso during the Women’s World Cup trophy and medal ceremony. He kissed the all-top scorer on the lips, put his hands over her head in the process after the finale where Spain claimed victory over England. 

Rubiales faced widespread criticism, with politicians and journalists calling out his behavior as “unacceptable” and “simply disgusting”. After calling the critics “idiots”, the Spanish FA executive apologized. 

“I made a mistake for sure. I have to accept it. In a moment of such emotion, without any bad intention or bad faith, what happened, happened, in a very spontaneous way. There was no bad faith from either side.” 

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In a video statement, Rubiales reiterated his regret. “There’s an event, which I have to regret, which is everything that happened between the player and I, with a magnificent relationship between the two of us, the same as with the others. And well, I surely made a mistake, I have to recognize that. In a moment of elation, without any intention of bad faith, well, what happened, happened – I think in a very spontaneous way. I repeat, there was no bad faith between either of the two of us.” 

The 45-year-old added that outside the bubble, it looks like it has turned into a storm. “So, if there are people who have felt offended, I have to say I’m sorry.” 

Hermoso said she didn’t enjoy that and later added that it was no big deal. “It was a mutual, totally spontaneous gesture because of the huge joy of winning a World Cup. The presi and I have a great relationship. His behavior with us has been 10. It was a natural gesture of affection and gratitude. We’ve won a World Cup, and we won’t get away from what’s important.”