The president of the Spanish Football Association (FA) has been suspended from all football activities for two years. This comes just days after the Spanish team’s triumphant European Championship win in Berlin. The suspension was handed down by Spain’s Administrative Tribunal of Sport (TAD), citing multiple infractions and abuse of authority.
The decision follows a series of controversies that began with his predecessor, Luis Rubiales. Rubiales faced widespread criticism and legal action after forcibly kissing Spain’s Jennifer Hermoso during the Women’s World Cup trophy presentation in the summer of 2023. Although Rubiales claimed the kiss was consensual, he was handed a three-year ban from FIFA and now faces trial for sexual assault and coercion.
Rocha, who took over as the interim president and was later appointed permanently, has now come under scrutiny for his conduct. TAD found that he had overstepped his authority, particularly in the dismissal of former general secretary Andreu Camps. This decision, along with two other infractions, led to additional fines amounting to £13,880 (€16,527).
The tribunal’s ruling emphasizes the importance of ethical leadership in football administration. Rocha’s actions were deemed an ‘abuse of authority,’ reinforcing the need for accountability at the highest levels of sports governance.
The Spanish FA has not yet commented on the suspension, but the decision marks a significant moment in the ongoing efforts to maintain integrity within the organization. The ban serves as a reminder of the rigorous standards expected from those in leadership positions within the football community.
