(Geneva) The FIFA disciplinary committee had decided to suspend the former president of the Spanish soccer federation Luis Rubiales to prevent him from trying to intimidate possible witnesses in the Jenni Hermoso affair, said the organization that oversees sport on the planet in a written decision justifying its position.
Rubiales was suspended from his post at FIFA on August 26 to ensure an investigation into his conduct after the Women’s World Cup final, including kissing Hermoso on the lips without his consent.
The provisional suspension was imposed “in order to ensure that the testimonies are authentic, without any form of pressure, threat or retaliation,” said FIFA disciplinary committee judge Jorge Palacio.
Only one of the four possible reasons was necessary for FIFA to be able to dismiss Rubiales during the investigation by the disciplinary committee, which could reach its outcome within a few months. The magistrate stressed that the four criteria had been satisfied, according to the verdict which has just been published.
These reasons served to “ensure that justice is done,” that discipline is maintained in the organization, that irreparable harm is avoided, and that the health and safety of all is ensured.
FIFA waited to suspend Rubiales, as an investigation was officially launched on August 24, four days after the alleged incident in Sydney, Australia.
The nine-page document also discusses other incidents that are under investigation, including Rubiales grabbing his crotch after Spain’s 1-0 victory over England and the ex-president of the Spanish FA soccer player who was observed “carrying Spanish player Athenea del Castillo on his shoulder during post-match festivities.”