The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has dismissed former Spanish football federation president Luis Rubiales' appeal against a three-year ban imposed by FIFA.
This sanction stems from an incident during the 2023 Women's World Cup final, where Rubiales kissed player Jenni Hermoso without her consent.
CAS stated that Rubiales' behavior "constituted multiple and serious violations" of FIFA's disciplinary code.
In addition to the ban, Spain's High Court found Rubiales guilty of sexual assault, fining him €10,800 and issuing a restraining order preventing him from approaching Hermoso.
The incident has ignited widespread discussions about sexism in sports.
England women's team manager Sarina Wiegman emphasised the need for cultural change, stating, "More changes are needed in women's football."
Spanish political scientist Víctor Lapuente commented that Rubiales "will be remembered as a villain."
Despite the legal outcomes, both Rubiales and Hermoso plan to appeal the verdicts, indicating that the legal proceedings are not yet concluded.
UEFA is considering hosting the Champions League final in the United States, potentially as early as 2027.
This development follows UEFA and the European Club Association (ECA) entering exclusive negotiations with Relevent Sports, a New York-based agency, for global commercial rights to men's club competitions from 2027 to 2033.
Relevent Sports, founded by Miami Dolphins owner Stephen Ross, has a history of organizing major football events, including the International Champions Cup, and aims to bring significant European matches to U.S. soil.
UEFA President Aleksander Čeferin has previously acknowledged this possibility, stating, "Football is extremely popular in the United States these days. Americans are willing to pay [high ticket prices] for the best."
The potential shift to U.S. venues is part of a broader strategy to expand the global reach of European football and tap into the lucrative American market.
This move would mark a significant departure from tradition, as the Champions League final has historically been held in Europe.
The proposed partnership with Relevent Sports could pave the way for this change, with discussions suggesting that a final in the U.S. could occur by 2033.
Relevent Sports has been at the forefront of promoting European football in the U.S., and their collaboration with UEFA could facilitate this landmark event.
However, this proposal has sparked debate among fans and stakeholders.
Traditionalists argue that relocating the final could undermine the competition's European heritage and inconvenience local supporters.
Conversely, proponents believe it would enhance the sport's global profile and generate substantial revenue.
As UEFA and Relevent Sports continue their negotiations, the football community awaits a decision that could redefine the landscape of European club football.
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