In a recent turn of events, Angeles Bejar, the mother of Luis Rubiales, who has been temporarily relieved of his duties as the president of the Real Federación Española de Fútbol (RFEF), has been discharged from the Hospital Santa Ana in Motril, Granada. Ms Bejar’s hospitalisation followed her decision to embark on a hunger strike in protest of what she perceived as unfair treatment of her son.
The situation unfolded as Ms Bejar locked herself inside the Divina Pastora church in Motril. Her hunger strike, which she declared would continue “indefinitely, day and night,” was a response to the controversies surrounding Luis Rubiales. The main one being the kiss with Jenni Hermoso during the World Cup final.
Luis Rubiales’ mother hospitalised
Reports indicated that Ms Bejar’s physical condition had deteriorated during her three-day hunger strike and confinement in the church. She displayed symptoms including swollen legs, likely attributed to fluid retention, along with vomiting, dizziness, and anxiety. Concerns about her health led to her transfer to Hospital Santa Ana, where she received medical treatment and care.
Luis Rubiales, who had been suspended by FIFA following the controversy, has faced criticism. This was not just for his actions, but also for his handling of the situation. Moreover, the incident involving the kiss with Jenni Hermoso led to discussions about consent and professionalism. While Rubiales maintained that the kiss was “mutual and consensual,” Hermoso contradicted this assertion during the presentation ceremony.
“Inhuman and bloody hunt”
Angeles Bejar’s protest shed light on the depth of emotions tied to the ongoing controversy. She expressed her frustration with what she referred to as the “inhuman and bloody hunt” against her son. She claimed that he did not deserve such treatment. The tensions escalated when regional leaders of the Football Federation called for Rubiales’ immediate resignation, and Spanish prosecutors launched a preliminary investigation into potential charges of sexual assault.
These events sparked a broader debate about ethics, professionalism, and gender dynamics within the realm of sports leadership. In a recent interview for French publication, LÉquipe, UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin was questioned on the matter. He characterised Rubiales’ actions as “inappropriate” and expressing his sadness that the incident overshadowed the Spanish national team’s victory.
Aleksander Ceferin, le patron de l'UEFA, condamne l'attitude du président de la fédération espagnole Luis Rubiales qui a imposé un baiser sur la bouche à Jennifer Hermoso. Mais il n'en rajoute pas. https://t.co/XTGZ5aFxQn pic.twitter.com/spWqAtGFHG
— L'ÉQUIPE (@lequipe) August 31, 2023
As saga continues, questions remain about the future of the RFEF leadership and the necessary changes that need to be implemented to address the concerns raised by Angeles Bejar’s hunger strike and the subsequent controversy. The incident has highlighted the need for open dialogue, accountability, and respect within the football community.
Also read: Drama, controversy, joy and heartbreak at the 2023 FIFA Women´s World Cup Final
