Spanish Government Establishes Oversight Committee for Football Federation Amid Scandal

The Spanish government has announced the creation of a special committee to oversee the country's scandal-hit football federation (RFEF) until new elections are held. The decision comes in response to the ongoing crisis and allegations of corruption within the organization, including a forcible kiss by former RFEF president Luis Rubiales on player Jenni Hermoso during the Women's World Cup awards ceremony last year.

The government aims to address the serious situation at the RFEF and allow the organization to undergo a period of regeneration. The oversight committee, known as the "Commission for Supervision, Normalization and Representation," will be led by independent personalities of recognized prestige. It will oversee the RFEF's operations in the coming months to defend Spain's general interests and restore the reputation and image of Spanish football.

Why this matters: The government's intervention in the RFEF's affairs highlights the severity of the corruption allegations and the need for transparency and accountability in sports governance. As Spain prepares to co-host the 2030 Men's World Cup, ensuring the integrity and proper functioning of its football federation is critical for the country's sporting success and international reputation.

The corruption probe, which has led to the arrest of Rubiales and investigations into current RFEF president Pedro Rocha, is centered around contracts related to the Spanish Super Cup, the Copa del Rey final, and other deals involving the federation. Both Rubiales and Rocha have denied any wrongdoing. Rubiales is also set to stand trial separately for sexual assault related to the unsolicited kiss on Hermoso.

Spain's RFEF: FIFA and UEFA have expressed great concern over the government's involvement, stating that they will seek additional information to assess whether it affects the RFEF's obligation to manage its affairs independently. The government has assured that it will work closely with FIFA to resolve the unacceptable situation at the RFEF and maintain Spain's excellence in football at both the sporting and institutional levels.

"The government's decision comes as the RFEF faces significant challenges, including the upcoming Euro and Olympic competitions, as well as the design of the 2030 World Cup candidacy," stated the president of the Sports Council (CSD). The CSD has also informed the RFEF's Executive Committee that they can only perform ordinary administrative and management duties, as required by law, until the situation is resolved.

Key Takeaways

• Spanish govt creates committee to oversee scandal-hit football federation (RFEF).
• Probe centers on corruption allegations, including former RFEF president's misconduct.
• Govt aims to address crisis, restore RFEF's reputation ahead of 2030 World Cup.
• FIFA and UEFA express concern over govt's involvement, seek more information.
• RFEF can only perform routine duties until situation is resolved, says Sports Council.