Luis Rubiales, the former president of the Spanish football federation (RFEF), faced a humiliating public spectacle as he had eggs thrown at him during the presentation of his new book in Madrid. The incident, which occurred on Thursday, saw the 48-year-old allegedly targeted by his own uncle, adding a dramatic twist to his already controversial public profile.
Chaos at Book Launch
During the event to promote his book "Matar a Rubiales" (Killing Rubiales), a man identified by Rubiales as his uncle launched three eggs in his direction. One of the projectiles struck the disgraced former football chief on the back, causing a significant disruption. National police confirmed the arrest of a Spanish man at the scene, though they declined to verify the alleged family connection.
In a statement to the news portal Periodista Digital, Rubiales expressed his shock, claiming, "I've found out he was my own uncle, Luis Ruben he's called. An uncle who is my age. He threw eggs at me because he's a deranged person, and I don't think there's any justification for it." Rubiales added that he initially feared his uncle was armed, prompting his decision to pursue legal action.
Background of the Scandal
The egg-throwing incident is the latest chapter in the dramatic fall from grace for Rubiales, who was convicted of sexual assault for forcibly kissing player Jenni Hermoso. The kiss occurred during the medal ceremony after Spain's victory in the Women's World Cup in Sydney in August 2023. A Spanish appeals court upheld a fine of €10,800 against him, a ruling his lawyer has stated they will challenge at the supreme court.
Rubiales has consistently maintained the kiss was consensual. In a recent television appearance, he portrayed himself as a victim of a "sudden far-left movement" that capitalised on the issue. However, under Spain's penal code, a non-consensual kiss is considered sexual assault.
Wider Repercussions
The forced kiss sparked a global outcry over sexism in sport, leading to immense professional consequences for Rubiales. He was forced to resign from his post as RFEF president and subsequently received a three-year ban from all football-related activities. The scandal also plunged the Spanish football federation into a prolonged period of internal turmoil.
For Jenni Hermoso, the all-time top scorer for Spain's women's team, the event transformed her into an international symbol in the fight against macho culture in sports. The fallout continues to resonate, highlighting ongoing issues of accountability and respect within the sporting world.
