Hours Before Aitana Bonmati’s Potential Ballon d’Or Crowning, Ex-Spanish FA Boss Luis Rubiales Banned For 3 Years

It has been a special year for the Spanish women’s team. The Matildas won their first World Cup after they defeated England 1-0 in the final. However, the night and the larger victory were marred by the questionable behavior of the Spanish FA president, Luis Rubiales.

Today, however, is a big day for one of its stars Aitana Bonmati, who shone like a beacon in the World Cup and is set to win the Ballon d’Or Feminin in only a matter of time. Amidst this, an even bigger piece of news broke out as there’s finally a verdict on the case of Luis Rubiales.

FIFA bans Spain’s FA President

The Spanish FA president, after the World Cup win, allegedly kissed forward Jenni Hermoso on the lips during the celebrations. The president asserted that the kiss was consensual, but Hermoso later revealed that this was not the case. After protests for his resignation, and Rubiales claiming innocence with his mother getting involved, FIFA has now finally imposed a three-year ban from any soccer activities on the official.

The decision came ahead of the 2023 Ballon d’Or ceremony which is about to take place today evening in Paris. Rubiales was held responsible for violating Article 13 of FIFA’s disciplinary code. The Article deals with behavior and fair play issues. The verdict from FIFA was received on the 30th of October about a month after the official’s resignation.

Initially refusing to resign amid protests from media houses and government officials, the former president stepped down on September 11th. However, according to FIFA, the verdict is “subject to a possible appeal.” FIFA also issued a statement about its commitment to dealing with such issues saying, “Fifa reiterates its absolute commitment to respecting and protecting the integrity of all people and ensuring that the basic rules of decent conduct are upheld.”

Read More – How Rich is Aitana Bonmati? Spain & Barcelona Star’s Net Worth, Salary, and Endorsements Revealed

Meanwhile, Spanish soccer has another reason to celebrate, as Aitana Bonmati eyes the Ballon d’Or trophy.

Aitana Bonmati favorite for the Ballon d’Or Feminin

Spain has 6 contenders for the Ballon d’Or Feminin given to the best women soccer player in the world. The best player at the Cup, Aitana Bonamati, is the favorite to win the award after a stellar season. After scoring 3 goals in the tournament, the 25-year-old also created 2 assists helping La Roja to win their first World Cup.

Bonmati won the World Cup Golden Ball acing the forward Hermoso, who won the Silver Ball. The Barcelona midfielder also had an outstanding year with the club, winning the La Liga F and UEFA Women’s Champions League. Bonmati will take over the trophy from her club and national teammate Alexia Putellas who was out due to an injury.

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