The Game and Beyond: The Powerful Comeback and Hermoso’s Absence
Last Friday, the Spanish women’s football team showed remarkable resilience in their UEFA Nations League game against Belgium. Trailing 2-0 with just 20 minutes left, Spain staged a thrilling comeback, winning 3-2. However, the match was overshadowed by the absence of Jenni Hermoso, a key player who was left out of the squad by coach Montse Tome. Hermoso’s absence is deeply connected to the recent legal developments involving Luis Rubiales, the former president of the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), who was found guilty of sexual assault after kissing Hermoso without her consent during the 2023 Women’s World Cup celebrations. Despite her absence, Hermoso’s presence was felt as fans, including a mother and daughter, showed their support, highlighting her significance and the ongoing controversy surrounding her treatment.
A Trial’s Revelations: The Guilty Verdict and the Federation’s Inadequate Response
The trial of Luis Rubiales revealed the federation’s mishandling of the situation and its broader issues with sexism and disrespect towards players. Rubiales was fined over €10,000 for the assault, but he and three others were acquitted of coercion for trying to persuade Hermoso to publicly consent to the kiss. Hermoso’s isolation was evident, as the federation’s apparatus seemed more focused on protecting Rubiales than supporting her. The trial also exposed the lack of awareness and implementation of the federation’s sexual violence protocol, highlighting a systemic failure to protect players.
Push for Change: Players’ Actions and the Slow Pace of Reforms
In response to the federation’s failures, over 80 national team players demanded structural reforms to end sexism and improve conditions. Despite initial resistance, some changes were made, including the departure of Rubiales’ inner circle and the hiring of Markel Zubizarreta, a respected figure in women’s football, as sporting director. However, Zubizarreta’s subsequent departure underscored the instability and challenges in implementing meaningful reforms. The players’ push for equality continues, with a focus on achieving equal resources, not just salaries, to perform at their best.
New Leadership, Old Challenges: Rafael Louzan’s Presidency and Ongoing Issues
Rafael Louzan, the new president of the RFEF, has pledged a new era of openness and inclusivity. However, skepticism remains due to his past and the federation’s slow progress. Louzan’s leadership has seen some positive steps, such as increased female representation in leadership roles, but significant challenges persist. The federation’s budget allocation for women’s football remains unclear, and the vacancy in the women’s sporting director role highlights ongoing issues. While Louzan’s commitments are welcomed, the lack of tangible reforms leaves many questioning the depth of change.
Ongoing Battles on and off the Pitch: Recent Incidents and Federation’s Response
Recent incidents, such as an altercation between Mapi Leon and Daniela Caracas, continue to plague Spanish women’s football. The federation’s response has been criticized as inadequate, with no official statement or action taken, raising concerns about how seriously such issues are treated. These incidents, combined with the ongoing legal and structural challenges, indicate that the battle for equality and respect is far from over.
Uncertain Future: Prospects for Real Change and Equal Treatment
While there have been small steps toward reform, the path to true equality remains uncertain. The federation’s new leadership and policies are welcomed, but the lack of substantial changes in funding, resources, and structural support for women’s football indicates that the journey is long. Players and advocates continue to push for real change, emphasizing that the battle for equality is ongoing. The outcome of these efforts will determine whether the Spanish women’s team can truly thrive on and off the pitch.
