FIFPRO has released a statement in support of Jennifer Hermoso, who was subjected to a non-consensual kiss by the President of the Spanish Football Federation, Luis Rubiales.
The players’ union has taken to social media to express their stance, emphasising that governing bodies worldwide are failing female players.
Despite FIFA launching an investigation into Rubiales’ conduct, he has repeatedly maintained his innocence and appears to have received support from the Spanish Football Federation.
At one point during this ongoing situation, the RFEF (Spanish Football Federation) even requested UEFA exclude them from European competitions, citing government interference.
UEFA, however, rejected this appeal.
FIFPRO has delivered a resolute statement, asserting that Jennifer Hermoso and all female players deserve better treatment and respect.
They wrote: “Contigo, Jenni. Your struggle is my struggle. Her struggle is our struggle. And we have had enough. We, the players, are stronger, more united, and more determined than ever. We demand change. We demand better.”
“The systems are failing us. Governance is failing us. Accountability is failing. Discrimination runs deep and occurs at every level. Football must respond and rise to this critical moment, not only in Spain, but around the world.”
“Football, without us, is nothing. And we are watching. Together.
“It’s time. It’s over.”
As Rubiales is being investigated by FIFA, he has subsequently been suspended from his role as RFEF president.
It remains to be seen what kind of sanctions are levelled against him.