Sports
Disgraced Spanish FA Chief’s mother seeks divine intervention over ‘Kiss Scandal’
The controversy surrounding Luis Rubiales, the former president of the Spanish Football Association (FA), has taken a surreal twist as reports emerge that his mother, Angeles Bejar, has embarked on a hunger strike in protest against what she perceives as a targeted “manhunt” against her son.
The scandal initially erupted following Spain’s Women’s World Cup victory, when Rubiales was captured on camera kissing player Jenni Hermoso on the lips during the medal ceremony. The incident prompted a flurry of criticism and widespread calls for his resignation.
Hermoso’s subsequent interview where she admitted, “I did not enjoy that,” further fueled the controversy.
Adding to the commotion, Aitana Bonmati, the team’s captain, also received a similar lip kiss from the 46-year-old Rubiales. The mounting backlash compelled many to demand his resignation from the Spanish FA.
In an unconventional press conference, Rubiales staunchly defended his actions, asserting that he would not step down from his position. The Spanish FA released a statement claiming Hermoso was comfortable with the kiss.
However, Hermoso later released her own statement, revealing that she had been coerced into her previous comments. In a show of solidarity, 81 female players voiced their refusal to represent Spain as long as Rubiales remained in power.
FIFA intervened by suspending Rubiales, the former player, from all football-related activities. A shocking twist emerged with reports suggesting that Rubiales’ mother, Angeles Bejar, has initiated a hunger strike in protest against what she perceives as an unjust “manhunt” against her son.
Reportedly seeking refuge in the Divina Pastora church in Montril, Angeles Bejar, accompanied by her sister, has demanded that Hermoso “tell the truth.” Sources indicate that Bejar intends to maintain her hunger strike until she believes justice is served.
As per information from the Daily Express, Bejar entered the church on Monday morning and intends to remain there until her quest for “justice” is fulfilled.
The situation has ignited a wave of responses from various quarters. Renowned male players including David de Gea, Isco, Borja Iglesias, as well as stars from Sevilla, have expressed their stance on the matter. Concurrently, 11 members of Spain’s coaching team have resigned from their positions to stand in solidarity with Hermoso.
Amid the intensifying turmoil, Rubiales remains suspended from any football-related engagements, pending ongoing disciplinary proceedings. The Spanish FA released a statement indicating that Rubiales is committed to legally defending himself through appropriate channels. He maintains trust in FIFA’s process to ensure that the truth ultimately prevails.