Ex-Spain FA chief Luis Rubiales handed 3-year ban by FIFA

FIFA on Monday banned former Spanish football federation president Luis Rubiales for three years for misconduct during the Women’s World Cup final, where he forcibly kissed Jenni Hermoso on the lips during the trophy ceremony.

FIFA has not published details of the verdict handed down by the judges of its disciplinary commission, who had investigated accusations related to “fundamental rules of decent conduct” and “behavior which brings discredit to football and/or FIFA.

Rubiales kissed player Jenni Hermoso on the lips after Spain’s 1-0 victory over England on August 20 in Sydney, Australia.

Minutes earlier, Rubiales had grabbed his crotch in victory in the exclusive seating section with Queen Letizia of Spain and Princess Sofía, 16, standing nearby.

Rubiales resigned from his soccer job in September after weeks of defiance that increased pressure on him from the Spanish government and national team players.

Rubiales can request the verdict within 10 days and then appeal to FIFA.

Hermoso had already filed a complaint over the unsolicited kiss.

Information from The Associated Press was used in this report.