Debbie Hewitt’s Uncomfortable Experience at the 2023 Women’s World Cup Final

In a shocking revelation at a Fifa disciplinary hearing, Debbie Hewitt, the chair of the Football Association (FA), shed light on her discomforting encounter with the disgraced former president of the Spanish Football Federation, Luis Rubiales, during the 2023 Women’s World Cup final. England had just suffered a 1-0 loss to Spain in the final match, but it was events off the pitch that took center stage.

Hewitt provided a vivid account of Rubiales’ unsettling behavior, recounting how he “cupped and stroked” the face of England midfielder Laura Coombs and “seemingly forcefully” kissed defender Lucy Bronze. These actions were part of a series of incidents that marred the presentation ceremony following the final match, leading to Rubiales’ subsequent three-year ban from football.

One particularly distressing incident involved Rubiales kissing Spanish player Jenni Hermoso without her consent. Hewitt, who had stood alongside Rubiales during the post-match medal ceremony, described him as “unpleasant and unnecessarily aggressive” when officials advised him not to move to a more prominent position.

Hewitt’s testimony continued as she shared her discomfort at Rubiales’ interactions with the Spanish players, including an inappropriate tap on one player’s bottom. The incident that left her “slightly shocked” was when Rubiales forcefully kissed Hermoso on the mouth, clearly indicating that it was not consensual.

Rubiales’ response to these accusations was vehement, where he expressed his disgust at being portrayed as a “creep” and accused Hewitt of spreading “blatant lies” or speaking out of ignorance. He even went as far as to suggest that Hewitt’s statement was a disservice to her role as the chair of the English FA. However, Fifa dismissed Rubiales’ defense, standing by Hewitt’s observations.

What’s particularly troubling is that at no point did Rubiales offer an apology for his actions. Instead, he merely acknowledged that they “should not have happened.” Additionally, Rubiales was seen grabbing his crotch while celebrating Spain’s victory, which ultimately led to his resignation in September.

The disciplinary panel, after careful consideration, deemed Rubiales’ behavior “inexcusable and unacceptable.” They contemplated more severe sanctions given the gravity of the incidents but ultimately settled on a punishment that would serve as a deterrent.

Debbie Hewitt’s courageous testimony has shed light on a troubling incident that occurred on the world stage of women’s football. It serves as a reminder that sportsmanship and respect should extend beyond the field and into every aspect of the game.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Rubiales’ Misconduct

More about Rubiales’ Misconduct

• Luis Rubiales banned from football
• Debbie Hewitt’s testimony at Fifa disciplinary hearing
• Incidents at the 2023 Women’s World Cup final
• Luis Rubiales’ resignation