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.
Major League Soccer (MLS) has introduced a groundbreaking 'cash-for-player' trade mechanism, allowing clubs to directly purchase players from other teams within the league.
This initiative aims to retain top talent domestically and enhance the fluidity of player movements.
As MLS's senior vice president of player relations and competition, Jeff Agoos, explained, "The structure of the cash-for-player trades was really designed to put the trade on the same footing as a transfer out, so you could compare and contrast and decide which one would be better."
This policy shift has already led to significant transactions.
Notably, FC Dallas acquired Argentine midfielder Luciano Acosta from FC Cincinnati for $5 million, with potential performance-based incentives adding up to $1 million.
FC Dallas President Dan Hunt emphasised the club's ambition, stating, "This is a landmark signing for FC Dallas and a statement of our commitment to building a championship-caliber team."
Similarly, Houston Dynamo FC secured midfielder Jack McGlynn from the Philadelphia Union in a historic deal, marking the first cash-for-homegrown player trade in MLS history.
Pat Onstad, Houston Dynamo's president of soccer, praised McGlynn's fit for their style, noting, "Jack is a talented young player who fits our possession-oriented style of play."
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