Spanish football star Aitana Bonmati took the opportunity of winning the 2022-23 UEFA Women's Player of the Year award to voice her criticism of Luis Rubiales, the president of the Spanish Football Federation, reported by goal.com. Rubiales has faced controversy for his actions during the awards ceremony of the FIFA Women's World Cup final, where Spain defeated England 1-0 to claim their first global crown.

During the ceremony, Rubiales kissed Jenni Hermoso without her consent at the Women's World Cup, an act that has drawn widespread condemnation. Although Rubiales insists that the kiss was consensual, Hermoso stated that she did not “enjoy” it, and approximately 81 players have declared that they will not play for the Spanish national team until Rubiales is dismissed.

Bonmati joined the chorus of voices speaking out against the embattled president, denouncing the “abuse of power” and calling for it to end. She stated, “As a society, we cannot allow the abuse of power in a working environment or disrespect. To all women who are suffering the same thing as Jenni, we're with you. Spanish soccer is going through bad moments right now. We won the Women's World Cup, but we're not talking a lot about that because of some things I rather not ignore.”

England manager Sarina Wiegman also addressed the Rubiales scandal during the UEFA Awards, dedicating her Women's Coach of the Year award to the Spain squad. She expressed her deep concern about the situation, saying, “There is still a long way to go in women's football and in society. We all know the issues around the Spanish team. It really hurts me as a coach, a mother of two daughters, as a wife, and as a human being.”

In response to the controversy, FIFA has suspended Luis Rubiales from all football-related activities for 90 days and initiated disciplinary proceedings. The incident has brought attention to issues of consent, respect, and gender equality within football and society as a whole.