“Let’s Go Boys” – After Kissing Scandal at World Cup, Megan Rapinoe Finds an ‘Ally’ in 21,590,000-Rated Superstar

Spain is making waves for two reasons. Their women’s team won the FIFA World Cup for the first time. But controversy overshadowed the joy of winning the ultimate prize. Spanish Federation President showed highly inappropriate behavior by grabbing his crotch after the final whistle and non-consensually kissing their player Jenni Hermoso, during the awarding ceremony. These actions received harsh criticism worldwide, with Megan Rapinoe calling it out. However, she is not alone in protesting against Rubiales’ shameful acts. 

Since the incident happened, many sportspersons especially female soccer stars have taken to social media against Rubiales, siding with Jenni Hermoso. Borja Iglesias from the Spanish men’s team also expressed his support and it caught Rapinoe’s eyes as she urged other men’s team players to follow suit. 

Megan Rapinoe urges men’s team to stand in solidarity

Rapinoe called out Rubiales for misogyny and sexism in a recent interview after the footage emerged where the Spanish FA (RFEF) boss held his crotch and later kissed Hermoso. Despite reports of him resigning, on Friday, Rubiales publically refused to step aside. In RFEF’s general assembly, Rubiales said he won’t resign, claiming he did nothing wrong.

As a result, social media was full of shocking reactions. La Furia Roja announced that they will not play for the national team again until the situation is changed. The entire squad of 23 players from Spain’s World Cup-winning roster signed the collective statement. Meanwhile, Spanish men’s team striker Borja Iglesias released a stern statement stating he won’t represent the Spanish national team in support of Hermoso.

The statement was much appreciated, especially by Megan Rapinoe. She shared it on her Instagram story with a caption, “And who’s next? Let’s go boys,” urging other men’s team players to support the cause. It will be interesting to see how the RFEF boss responds to increasing pressure over his resignation. The reports state that the Spanish Government has opened disciplinary action against Rubiales. 

Soccer fraternity in unity with Spain’s women’s team

Spanish soccer giants like Real Madrid and Barcelona, amongst other clubs, have sided with disciplinary action against Rubiales. Most former and current players labeled the act shameful, asking for the resignation of the RFEF boss. Many including Real Madrid legend Iker Casillas, Spain international Isco, and USWNT superstar Alex Morgan took to social media in support of Hermoso.

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While players and fans should have celebrated the World Cup glory, they are fighting against the RFEF boss. Everyone feels it’s the right time to wipe out such personalities from soccer. FIFA hasn’t been a spectator, too. The pinnacle soccer body opened an investigation against Rubiales for his misconduct. With pressure mounting from all sides, Rubiales is standing his ground.

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What do you think of the Rubiales’ stance of not resigning?