Spain wins first Women’s World Cup Despite Federation Turmoil

Sydney Australia- the site where history was made as a young Spanish team narrowly defeated England 1- 0 in the Women’s World Cup Final. Spain undeniably outplayed England throughout the duration of the match despite their lack of veteran experience. However, regardless of Spain’s domination, Olga Carmona’s goal in the 29th minute proved to be the difference maker. England’s keeper, Mary Earp, saved a second half penalty from Jennifer Hermoso giving England a chance, but England still failed to score. When the final whistle blew and confetti rained down, Spain celebrated together as a team.

However one can only think of those players whose chance to play for their country was taken from them. Last September, members of the Spanish National Team launched a protest against the Royal Spanish Football Federation and Head Coach Jorge Vilda. A group of 15 players sent individual, but identical, emails saying they didn’t want to be called up to play until certain demands were met. The players wanted changes in preparation for games, travel arrangements, and the limited amount of staff. They also complained about coaches who restricted their freedom during camps. They maintained that Vilda created a toxic environment on the team.

As a result of these emails only 3 of the 15 players were called up to the national team. These Spanish players stood up for themselves and it backfired, causing them to miss out on playing for the game’s biggest prize. The disconnect between players and coaches was evident in the celebration after the game. The players and coaches celebrated on opposite sides of the field, completely separate. Eventually some players threw Vilda in the air, but noticeably not all. Fans were well aware of the conflict between players and the organization. Fans contributed to the protest and the crowd of 75,000 booed the head coach before kickoff when his name was announced and again when he received his medal.

Despite the players’ complaints, the Spanish Federation continues to back Vilda with President Luis Rubiales saying that Vilda has "forgotten the people … who wanted to destroy him" (CBS Sports). The official account for Spain’s Women’s National team posted a photo of Vilda kissing the World Cup Trophy with the caption “ Vilda in.” This seemingly innocent post sends a direct message to the players telling them that the Federation has made their decision and has chosen Vilda over the players. If the players have a problem with Vilda or the Federation they won’t be selected for the team.

Despite this World Cup setback, 7 of the 15 players continue to protest. Defender Mapi Leon claims, "I can't go back if the situation doesn't change … There has to be changes. I'm not saying that they're not doing it, but I don't see them. What saddens me the most is that I really have to miss out on something when I could have earned it and contributed. It's a shame." (CBS Sports).

More controversy continues to plague Spain’s National Team due to the actions of Federation President Luis Rubiales immediately after the victory. As players line up to receive their medals from the head of their Federation it is customary to shake hands or hug. However, when it was Jennifer Hermoso’s turn to get her medal, Rubiales grabbed her head and forcibly kissed her on the lips. Rubiales faced immediate backlash from everyone watching the game, including Spain's Acting Prime Minister, Pedro Sánchez: "it was an unacceptable gesture and Mr. Rubiales' apologies are not enough; they are not even suitable. Therefore, he must continue taking steps to clarify what we saw" (NPR). Rubliales’ apologies are not, and will not be enough, and many call for his resignation including acting Second Vice President Yolanda Díaz who states, "we continue to ask for the resignation of the man who has harassed and assaulted a woman. His excuses are useless… this person must resign” (NPR).

In the locker room following the incident Hermoso stated, "I didn't like it," and after she is seemingly shown a video or photo of the kiss, she said, "What do I do? Look at me, look at me." The Federation released a video of Rubiales’ attempt at an apology where he claimed the kiss was "very spontaneous" and "a moment of maximum effusiveness without any bad intention." He continued to add, "I have to apologize, there is no other option, right?"

Despite his apology, Rubiales clearly doesn’t think he was in the wrong as he called those criticizing him “idiots.” NPR reported that Rubiales had tried to convince Hermoso to appear with him in an apology video, but she declined. The misogyny of the Federation has tainted Spain’s win and clearly impacted the wellbeing of their players. Change can only come with a new coach and new Federation leadership. However, the Spanish players remain resilient. This win was not for the Federation or the coaching staff, this win was for them.

Grace Bishop