Emma Byrne has added her voice to those condemning the behaviour of the President of the Spanish Football Association on Sunday.
Luis Rubiales has come in for much criticism for kissing Spain forward Jenni Hermoso on the lips, as she joined for teammates on the podium after winning the Women's World Cup Final against England.
In the dressing room afterwards, he was heard to say that he will "marry" Hermoso, and a moment in which he appeared to grab his crotch in the stands at Stadium Australia in Sydney has also gone viral.
That moment is part of a longer clip in which Rubiales is seen to be joyously celebrating a first-ever Women's World Cup success for Spain.
Emma Byrne condemns Rubiales behaviour
During a live stream after the game, Hermoso was heard to say that she "didn't like" Rubiales kiss, but she has since expanded further in comments delivered through the federation which state:
"It was a totally spontaneous mutual gesture because of the immense joy that winning a World Cup brings. The president and I have a great relationship, his behaviour with all of us has been outstanding and it was a natural gesture of affection and gratitude.”
Byrne, Ireland's record appearance-holder and RTE pundit during the tournament, has since tweeted about the behaviour of Rubiales on the night.
"I can confirm that a Michael Jackson song was NOT playing in the stadium," posted the ex-Arsenal goalkeeper, in reference to the apparent crotch-grab.
"And as for the kiss on Jenni…. Goodbye #Rubiales," she added.
I can confirm that a Michael Jackson song was NOT playing in the stadium. And as for the kiss on Jenni….
Goodbye #Rubiales pic.twitter.com/VahsRI0CJZ— emma byrne (@emmsb30) August 21, 2023
Rubiales dominates headlines in Spain
Reaction to Rubiales' kiss has dominated Spanish headlines on Monday, overshadowing the historic achievements of the national team.
Equality Minister Irene Montero described it as "a form of sexual violence that we women suffer on a daily basis and until now has been invisible," while sports reporter Nadia Tronchoni wrote that it was "an intrusion, an invasion of one’s personal space. Without consent. An aggression."
