Demanding Change in the Sports Landscape

By Gabriela Mueller Mendoza Founder of Women Lead Sports Master Program

In Women Lead Sports , we strongly condemn the troubling incident that transpired during the post-match celebrations. The actions of Luis Rubiales, president of the Spanish Football Federation, are deeply concerning. The unwarranted and inappropriate kiss forced upon Jenni Hermoso only highlights the rampant misogyny and sexism that far too many women endure throughout their sports journeys.

First things first. Uninvited physical advances toward players, particularly when those players are put in vulnerable positions due to a power imbalance, are utterly unacceptable. Our commitment to safeguarding athletes and women in sports organizations remains unwavering, as it is essential to ensure their unhindered participation on a global scale.

We stand united with fellow organizations and leaders, demanding immediate accountability for the conduct exhibited by Luis Rubiales during the FIFA Women’s World Cup final. Luis as president of the Spanish FA kissed Jenni Hermoso on the lips during the nation’s World Cup celebrations on Sunday. Hermoso said she "did not enjoy it" in the aftermath of the incident and later called for the president’s actions to ‘not go unpunished’.

We welcome the ongoing investigation of his actions in accordance with FIFA’s code of ethics. A mere apology falls short of addressing the gravity of this situation.

Sports, a conduit for progress, demands the eradication of such behavior. Serious incidents like these underscore the critical need for collective action. We firmly assert that behavior of this nature cannot be normalized or dismissed. These events serve as pivotal moments, opportunities to reshape the trajectory of sports towards a more inclusive and respectful future.

I was recently asked by an outlet in my recent work trip to South East Asia why the backlash on this issue. Here is my response. "Normalizing acts like the one witnessed on global TV by Luis Rubiales during post-match celebrations is deeply concerning and has far-reaching implications. This is why: when girls and boys observe their coaches, who are meant to be trusted role models, engaging in inappropriate behavior and physical contact, it sends a disturbing message. The sight of adults, especially those in positions of authority, seemingly excusing their actions as uncontrollable emotional outbursts can shape the perceptions of young minds. This perpetuates the belief that such behavior is acceptable, creating an environment where boundaries are blurred and misconduct goes unchecked. It is crucial to recognize that these incidents have a significant impact on shaping the attitudes and behaviors of the next generation within the sports community and beyond. Coach Gabriela Mueller

According to the Women In Football survey of 2023, 18% of women in the football industry have reported experiencing sexual harassment at work. This statistic is an alarming reminder of the challenges that persist. Unwanted physical contact and inappropriate behavior have no place in any setting, especially in sports.

It is the responsibility of both men and their employers, sports organizations (from clubs, associations, federations) to address and rectify these concerns. Failure to do so perpetuates an environment that is detrimental to progress. Without decisive action, we risk further perpetuating a culture that marginalizes and mistreats women.

By confronting these issues head-on, we have an opportunity to create a safer, more inclusive sports landscape. Let us commit to fostering a culture of respect, equality, and accountability – one that paves the way for positive change and ensures that athletes, regardless of gender, are treated with the dignity they deserve.

#StandForRespect #AccountabilityInSports #EndMisconduct

#RespectForAll #EqualityInSports #EndHarassment

Coach Gabriela Mueller Mendoza