CAS rules Rubiales committed 'serious' breach but Spanish government cannot suspend him

The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has opened a case against suspended Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) president Luis Rubiales for 'serious' breach of conduct, but not for a 'very serious' breach as requested by the Spanish government. 

Spain's Superior Sports Board (CSD) asked the supranational court to open a 'very serious' case which would have allowed the Spanish sports body to suspend Rubiales from his post. However, with only the 'serious' category, the CSD will not be able to remove him. 

Nevertheless, FIFA provisionally suspended Rubiales last week from all footballing activity for 90 days. 

On August 20 following the World Cup Final, Rubiales forcibly kissed Spain forward Jenni Hermoso on the lips. Prosecutors have began proceedings for a sexual assault case against him, but the football official refused to resign in an explosive press conference last week. 

In response to his refusal to step down, 81 Spanish players, including the entirety of the World Cup-winning squad, announced they would not return to the national team until serious changes come to the directorship of the RFEF. 

With a 'serious' infringement case open in the CAS, Rubiales could be disqualified only for a maximum of two years. The Spanish government wanted to remove him from his position entirely. 

Other members of the RFEF urged Rubiales to stand down immediately this week.

Spain to ask for suspension 

The Spanish government will ask CAS to provisionally suspend Rubiales until the case is fully resolved.

The Minister of Culture and Sports, Miquel Iceta, said on Friday that an immediate suspension was the desired outcome of the Spanish government.