FIFA opens case against Spanish soccer head who kissed player without consent

FIFA opened a disciplinary case Thursday against the Spanish soccer official who kissed a player on the lips while celebrating the team's victory in the Women's World Cup final.

The governing body's disciplinary committee will weigh if Spanish soccer federation president Luis Rubiales violated its code relating to "the basic rules of decent conduct" and "behaving in a way that brings the sport of football and/or FIFA into disrepute."

Rubiales kissed player Jenni Hermoso on the lips during the trophy and medal ceremony on Sunday after Spain's 1-0 victory over England in Sydney, Australia.

Hermoso has said she did not like the kiss and the national players' union representing her — which the 46-year-old Rubiales once led — called Wednesday for his conduct to not go unpunished.

FIFA responded Thursday.

"FIFA reiterates its unwavering commitment to respecting the integrity of all individuals and strongly condemns any behavior to the contrary," the soccer body said without specifying which acts by Rubiales are under investigation.

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Victor Francos, Spain's secretary of state for sports, said Wednesday that "the gesture of grabbing his testicles in the tribune is a gesture that no one can defend."

FIFA gave no timetable for a ruling. The body's disciplinary judges can impose sanctions on individuals ranging from warnings and fines to suspensions from the sport.

The FIFA disciplinary panel is chaired by Colombian lawyer Jorge Palacio, a former labour court judge and member of the state constitutional court.

Rubiales is a vice president of UEFA, a role which pays 250,000 euros ($367,000) each year plus expenses, and was the European soccer body's most