Except for his most faithful acolytes, Luis Rubiales is alone in women’s football. After his speech, in which he defended his position and vehemently declined to resign, the still president of the Federation has been singled out by an increasingly broad group of players, leaders and clubs from around the world who have not hesitated to position themselves and defend Jenny Beautiful.
The leader’s version of the kiss, assuring that it was consented to, unlike what was later exposed by the player, has caused a wave of more indignation towards Rubiales, already invited to leave office by various sectors, including the politician headed by the Government , after the first apology or justification of his action. Now, a large part of women’s football has stood up to say enough is enough.
England fought unsuccessfully for more than 90 minutes against Spain in the World Cup final, but given Rubiales’ attitude, the lionesses have sided with the Spanish and especially with Hermoso. “Unacceptable actions allowed by a sexist and patriarchal organization. Abuse is abuse and we have all seen the truth,” the British said in a message released by player Leah Williamson.
“The behavior of those who believe they are invincible should not be tolerated and it should not be necessary to convince people to act against any form of harassment. We are all with you, Jenni Hermoso, and with all the players of the Spanish team”, concludes the writing of the runners-up of the world in Sydney.
The carousel of voices of players against the president of the Spanish Federation is practically infinite. “If you don’t see the problem, you are part of it. My thoughts with the players who should be celebrating and with those who decided to stay at home. Enough,” said Norwegian star Ada Hegerberg, Ballon d’Or winner in 2018.
The defense towards Hermoso has also crossed the pond, especially in the United States, the first power in terms of women’s soccer. The list of supporters in the country of the stars and stripes is practically endless, social networks flooded with messages that repeat the need to raise their voices like a mantra.
“As leaders of leagues, federations and governing bodies, we must protect our players. The actions of the Spanish federation are outrageous and a reminder that there is still work to be done. We stand with Jenni Hermoso and any player facing inappropriate behavior or abuse.” , indicated the commissioner of the American league (NWSL), Jessica Berman.
“Winning a World Cup should be one of the best moments in the lives of these players, but instead it is overshadowed by attacks, misogyny and the failures of the Spanish federation,” explained Alex Morgan, to the that Rubiales’ actions make him “disgusted”, as his compatriot Megan Rapinoe said before. The United States captain, a two-time world champion, was seconded by her San Diego Wave teammates.
“With you Jenni”, could be read in Spanish on the special wristbands worn by the players of the Californian team in honor of the woman from Madrid during the League match against Orlando Pride, another of the many American clubs with their players, including the Brazilian star Marta, who ruled in favor of Hermoso. Gotham FC, Angel City FC, KC Current, OL Reign, and reigning champion Portland Thorns FC also sided with the Spanish, among others.
“There is no place for misogyny, abuse or misconduct of any kind in our game,” the Canadian Soccer Players Association said. It was no less Pachuca, the club where Jenni Hermoso plays. “We are with you Jenni,” read a large banner held by Las Tuzas and the FC Juárez players before the match between them in the Mexican league. The soccer players also wore the same message on some wristbands.
