This is the MeToo moment in Spain.
It’s a chance to bring everyone’s attention to how women are treated in football, as well as to the irritation many feel at what they perceive to be systematic ignorance at the top of a prestigious organization, the Spanish Football Federation.
Male players are also supporting Jenni Hermoso, albeit perhaps not to the extent that was planned.
It started a football storm that developed into a social tsunami. Everywhere you go, it seems like everyone is talking about it, and every day, it’s the most-read news item in Spain.
It tells the tale of Luis Rubiales, a character who seems to have lost all sense of reality, and who has long been surrounded by those who share his apparent worldview.
However, this powerful group is now a minority.
Many people find it hard to believe their obstinacy on this matter, and in Spain they appear vulnerable.
The women’s national team’s coaching staff has left their positions, but Jorge Vilda has noticeably remained in his position. Vilda was among the prominent Spanish football professionals who were seen applauding Rubiales yesterday.
The Spanish people have taken note of this.
Keep in mind that the players requested the departure of all federation members, not only Rubiales. These women who have conquered the globe view today as their chance to push aside anyone who they believe is impeding their quest for unwavering respect and equality.
This is about how prejudice against women works, according to many individuals. It is carried out by a system rather than simply one individual.
This episode also demonstrates how the lines of war have been established in Spain.
The fight is being waged at the highest level.
Pedro Sánchez, the prime minister, has no qualms about identifying as a feminist. People feel compelled to act and must intervene in the Spanish sports groups I frequent.
Beyond that, there is a sense that Spain must use this opportunity given how fast it has intensified and how widely it is making news.
We were rejoicing in a historic World Cup triumph one week ago. Some claim it rapidly turned sour. It’s been a frenzy of achievement and blame, of holding people accountable – and of blatant resistance.
However, everyone agrees on one thing: this is one of the most significant weeks for Spain in recent memory.
It presents a chance for many individuals to relocate to a better area. Others view it as an opportunity to correct the record as they perceive it.
It’s hard to overstate Rubiales’s impact. His defiance indicates that he could have found comfort under such influence.
But the opposition against him has grown, beginning with Jenni Hermoso and her teammates and spreading to include their coaching staff, the men’s game, and the media. Now, this is a topic of conversation at practically every Spanish dinner table.
He might not feel as secure now.
