The Federation removes Albert Luque and Rubén Rivera from their responsibilities
The Real Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) has taken the decision to remove Albert Luque from his position as director of the men’s football team and Rubén Rivera from his position as head of the marketing department. This decision comes after the National Prosecutor’s Office requested a year and six months in prison for the two defendants, for an alleged crime of coercion on Jennifer Hermoso (https://www.softcatala.org/resum-de- texts-in-Catalan/).
The Federation respects the presumption of innocence
The RFEF has affirmed that it respects the presumption of innocence of Luque and Rivera until there is a firm court ruling, but has decided to remove them from their duties. This measure is part of the action plan announced by the federative body to clear all responsibilities that may arise from irregular conduct and decisions that occurred during the period of Luis Rubiales at the head of the Federation (https ://www.softcatala.org/resum-de-textos-en-catala/).
Other disciplinary measures of the Federation
This decision is in addition to other disciplinary measures taken by the Federation to clean up the body. Recently, he removed us from his positions to the employees who were being investigated by the Civil Guard as part of Operation Brody, which is investigating irregular payments and contracts during the Rubiales stage. In addition, the RFEF terminated the contract with GC Legal, the office led by Tomás González Cueto, who acted as external legal advisor.
The defense of Albert Luque
In his statement before the judge, Albert Luque denied having participated in the pressures that Jennifer Hermoso reported having suffered from several members of the RFEF. He claimed that he tried to talk to Hermoso because they were friends, but was unsuccessful. He maintained that he did not commit any crime of coercion.
The current situation of the Federation
The Federation is in a state of exception, with a management chaired by Pedro Rocha, who is in charge of leading the transition towards new elections. These disciplinary decisions come at a crucial time as Spain approaches a European Championship and prepares to bid for the 2030 World Cup. Both Luque and Rivera were appointed by the previous president of the Federation, with whom they now share judicial case (https://www.softcatala.org/resum-de-textos-en-catala/).
