The absence of intent does not exculpate conduct that breaches established norms of propriety, leading to disrepute in the sport of football. Especially when such conduct is committed by individuals in positions of institutional authority.
Introduction
The award in CAS 2024/A/10384 Luis Rubiales v. FIFA (Rubiales case) is a key element for sports jurisprudence, affirming that the conduct displayed on football’s most visible stage, such as the FIFA Women’s World Cup Final, is not immune from legal accountability. The decision underscores how evolving global standards on consent, propriety and leadership are reshaping the boundaries of acceptable behavior within the governance of the game.
On 20 August 2023, as Spain lifted its first FIFA Women’s World Cup trophy in Sydney, Australia, the football world celebrated a historic milestone. Yet, what should have remained a purely triumphant moment was quickly eclipsed by a series of actions from Luis Rubiales, then-President of the Real Federación Española de Fútbol (RFEF). Chief among them was a...
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