FIFA Suspends Spanish FA Chief Following 'Kiss' Row In Women's World Cup Final

FIFA has suspended Spanish football association chief Luis Rubiales after his involvement in the 'kiss' controversy at the end of the Women's World Cup final. According to reports, he has been handed a 90-day suspension and he has also been barred from contacting Jenni Hermoso in any way, "(We) decided today to provisionally suspend Mr. Luis Rubiales from all football-related activities at national and international level," said world football's governing body in a statement, explaining it would last 90 days, pending their disciplinary proceedings. Rubiales kissed Hermoso after Spain's victory over England but Hermoso made it clear that the Spanish FA chief did not have her consent.

The incident attracted criticism from all corners of the world with the footballers' union Futpro saying that 81 players were striking and will not play for the national side till Rubiales was removed. However, the Spanish FA chief remained defiant and he made it clear that he will not step down from his position.

Players from World Cup runners-up England released a statement in support of Hermoso on their social networks, signed "The Lionesses".

"Unacceptable actions allowed to happen by a sexist and patriarchal organisation. Abuse is abuse and we have all seen the truth," it read.

"The behaviour of those who think they are invincible must not be tolerated and people shouldn't need convincing to take action against any form of harassment.

"We all stand with you, Jenni Hermoso, and all players of the Spanish team."

Before the tournament 15 Spain players had taken a similar strike against the federation and coach Jorge Vilda, but many relented and three were part of the team's triumph in Australia and New Zealand.

Many players, including