The president of the Spanish Federation, Luis Rubiales, apologizes for kissing Jennifer Hermoso on the podium of the World Cup final | football news

Jennifer Hermoso started against England in the World Cup final on Sunday, but missed a chance to score when Mary Earps saved her penalty in the second half; Rubiales said: “I was completely wrong, I have to admit. It was unintentional at a time with a lot of emotion.”

The president of the Spanish Federation, Luis Rubiales, apologized for hugging and kissing Jennifer Hermoso on the lips during the celebration of the World Cup final trophy.

The footage showed Rubiales hugging the soccer player as Hermoso went to collect her medal on the trophy podium after Sunday’s 1-0 win over England.

On Monday, Rubalies said: “I was completely wrong, I have to admit. It was unintentionally at a time with a lot of emotion. At the time, we saw it as natural, but a commotion has formed outside.”

“I have to apologize, learn from this and understand that when you are president you have to be more careful.”

Forward Hermoso, who is Spain’s all-time leading goalscorer, was asked about the incident during an Instagram live video after the trophy ceremony and said: “I didn’t enjoy it.”

Speaking to AFP on behalf of the Spanish federation, Hermoso later said: “It was a totally spontaneous mutual gesture because of the immense joy of winning a World Cup.

“The president and I have a great relationship, his treatment with all of us has been outstanding and it was a natural gesture of affection and gratitude.”

Sky Sports News has contacted the Spanish FA for comment.

Hermoso started against England in the World Cup final on Sunday but missed a chance to score when Mary Earps saved her penalty in the second half.

“The reaction in Spain has polarized”

Spanish football expert Semra Hunter speaking to Sky Sports News about the incident:

“The reaction has been polarized in Spain. Some people felt that it was not a big deal, that they were both caught up in the moment and it was a sudden reaction: they are defending it in some way.”

“But there are other people who have said what he’s doing, what he’s thinking, and it’s grossly inappropriate.

“She tried to downplay it to the media saying they had a great relationship, he supported the girls throughout the tournament, he was really good at it and there’s nothing else.”

“But on social media he said he really didn’t like it. I think we’re not quite clear on how he feels about it.”

“If she’s really uncomfortable about it, then we have to look at the larger issue here and why she can’t speak up and be honest about it.”

“The reactions here have been completely opposite, in terms of those who say it’s not a big deal and others who are absolutely horrified by what they saw and are asking him to resign as president of the Spanish Federation.”