The Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), the governing body that runs football in Spain, has elected another controversial leader Rafael Louzán following the scandal involving previous leader Luis Rubiales’ non-consensual kiss of female Spanish footballer, Jenni Hermoso, following Spain’s win at the Women’s World Cup in 2023 in Australia.
Rubiales denies the allegations and resigned later in 2023 following the intense controversy of his situation. Rubiales is set to stand trial in February 2025. Some wish to see a two-and-a-half-year prison sentence imposed on him for sexual assault.
Despite the events of last summer, ongoing challenges related to institutional and governance issues appear to persist within the RFEF.
Rafael Louzán, 57, has been leader of the Galician Football Federation since 2014. He was triumphant over his Valencian opponent Salvador Gomar by 90 votes to 43 and could remain leader until 2028.
However, Louzán himself is also involved in controversy which could potentially cut his term of office short. Louzán was previously leader of the Pontevedra provincial council with the Popular Party. During this role, he was accused of embezzlement for granting a €93,000 subsidy for the renovation of the Moraña stadium. Louzán’s sentence has not been finalised, but an appeal has been brought before the Supreme Court and a decision is expected in February 2025.
Former RFEF president Pedro Rocha who succeeded Rubiales received a two-year period of ineligibility to stand as a candidate for the presidency of the RFEF as he abused his power. Spain’s superior sports court, the Sports Administrative Court (TAD), concluded that the September 2023 dismissal of former general secretary Andreu Camps was an abuse of Rocha’s authority.
If Louzán were to be disqualified, similar to his predecessor Rocha, the federation could face significant international criticism.
The High Sports Council (CSD) is currently trying to improve the RFEF’s image, and Louzán’s appointment has likely made this more challenging. However, the turmoil has seemingly not affected the players considering the Women’s 2023 World Cup win, Euro 2024 win for the men, and Olympic gold at Paris for the men too. The CSD is apparently considering filing a complaint with the TAD to help disqualify Louzán.
This turmoil poses a significant challenge to the reputation of the Spanish federation and Spanish football, especially with the 2030 World Cup co-hosting with Portugal and Morocco approaching.
