THE Spanish football federation (RFEF) has sacked Jorge Vilda, who coached the country’s team to their first-ever FIFA Women’s World Cup title in Australia and New Zealand just over two weeks ago.
The decision came amid the controversy involving RFEF president Luis Rubiales over his conduct moments after the final, in which Spain defeated England 1-0 in Sydney, Australia on August 20.
Vilda, who had fallen out with several members of the squad prior to the World Cup, was among those who applauded Rubiales when the disgraced president refused to resign despite facing widespread criticism for kissing forward Jenni Hermoso on the lips without her consent during the medal presentation.
Rubiales, who also grabbed his crotch in an inappropriate victory gesture after the final, has been provisionally suspended by world governing body FIFA and is facing a Spanish government case against him for the conduct that sparked serious backlash worldwide.
Vilda later said Rubiales’ conduct was improper. Men’s head coach Luis de la Fuente also applauded Rubiales’ diatribe against what he called ‘false feminists’, and apologised on Friday for having clapped in what he described an ‘inexcusable human error.’
“The federation wants to express its gratitude to Jorge Vilda for the services provided, for his professionalism and his dedication during all these years, wishing him success for the future,” RFEF said in an official statement today.
“He leaves the federation with an extraordinary sporting legacy thanks to the implementation of a recognised game model and a methodology that has been an engine of growth for all the women’s categories of the national team.”
Vilda, who had been in charge of the women’s team since 2015, has also been relieved of his position as sporting director.
