(CMR) FIFA suspended Spanish federation chief Luis Rubiales from all football-related activities for three months on Saturday as it investigates allegations he gave a player an unwanted kiss on the lips after Spain's women won the World Cup last week.
FIFA opened disciplinary proceedings against Rubiales over the incident with player Jenni Hermoso last Sunday in Sydney that has caused an uproar among players and fans.
He grabbed player Jenni Hermoso and kissed her on the lips during the awards ceremony following Spain's 1-0 victory over England last Sunday in Sydney, Australia.
He has also been ordered not to contact or attempt to contact Hermoso for the duration of his suspension.
“This suspension, which will be effective as of today, is for an initial period of 90 days”, pending the disciplinary proceedings.
Hermoso, a 33-year-old forward, said she did she consent to the kiss. She and her teammates have vowed not to play for Spain again, days after winning the World Cup for the first time.
The country's football federation has stood by its president, who says the kiss was consensual and threatened legal action to defend him.
The federation said it regretted the row was taking away from the World Cup success it wanted to celebrate.
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