Kathmandu: Luis Rubiales, the president of Spain's football federation, has been suspended by FIFA following a controversial incident involving a kiss shared with Spanish Women's World Cup player Jenni Hermoso.

The suspension, which comes amid an ongoing feud between Rubiales, the federation (RFEF), and the players, prohibits Rubiales from any football-related activities at both national and international levels for a period of 90 days. Additionally, Rubiales and the RFEF are barred from contacting Hermoso and her associates.

FIFA's move follows a series of events triggered by the contentious kiss, which took place after Spain's victory over England in the Women's World Cup. The incident escalated into a dispute that divided the RFEF and the players, with accusations of undue pressure and coercion being levied against Rubiales and the federation by Hermoso and her teammates.

In response to the controversy, Hermoso asserted that both Rubiales and the federation had exerted "continuous pressure" on her and her inner circle to appear in a video alongside Rubiales, where he offered an apology for the kiss. However, she chose not to participate. Rubiales, on the other hand, rejected calls for his resignation and insisted that the kiss was "mutual, euphoric, and consensual."

As tensions escalated, Hermoso, along with 80 other players, declared a strike and refused to participate in national team activities until there was a change in leadership. This action prompted the RFEF to threaten legal action against Hermoso for her statements, asserting their commitment to defending the "honour of the President of the RFEF."

The Spanish government also initiated proceedings that could lead to Rubiales' suspension from his post in the coming week. The controversy has divided opinion both within and outside of Spain, with various players and international teams expressing support for Hermoso and condemning the actions of the federation.

The situation highlights broader issues within football governance, including questions of power dynamics, respect, and gender equality. FIFA's suspension of Rubiales adds another layer to this complex and ongoing narrative, underscoring the need for transparent and equitable management in the world of sports.