FIFA moved to block potential witness tampering by Luis Rubiales when its disciplinary committee suspended the now-ousted Spanish soccer president, the sport's governing body said in a written verdict explaining the decision.
Rubiales was removed from office by FIFA on Aug. 26 in order to protect an investigation into his conduct at the Women's World Cup final, including kissing player Jenni Hermoso on the lips during the awards ceremony.
The provisional ban was imposed "particularly so that potential testimonies could be given freely and without any type of pressure, fear or reprisals," FIFA disciplinary judge Jorge Palacio wrote.
Only one of four possible reasons were needed by FIFA to sideline Rubiales during the ongoing disciplinary case, which could take months before a final decision.