Madrid, April 26, 2024, The Europe Today: In a significant development for Spanish football, the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) announced on Friday the appointment of Pedro Rocha as its new president, succeeding Luis Rubiales.
Rocha’s ascension to the presidency was confirmed by the RFEF, citing his endorsement by the majority of assembly members tasked with steering Spanish football.
The transition comes in the aftermath of the controversy surrounding Rubiales, who resigned from his post following public backlash over his inappropriate conduct, notably an unsolicited kiss of Spain forward Jenni Hermoso during celebrations following Spain’s victory in the Women’s World Cup final in Australia in August 2023.
Rocha’s elevation to the presidency unfolded as he emerged as the sole candidate for the RFEF presidency elections, in line with the predetermined electoral calendar.
However, Rocha’s tenure at the helm of Spanish football may be short-lived, given his entanglement in an ongoing corruption investigation dubbed ‘Operation Brody.’ Allegations of corruption, disloyal management, and money laundering have been leveled against Rocha, Rubiales, and several former RFEF members. The investigation spans various irregularities, including the controversial decision to host the Spanish Supercup in Saudi Arabia and discrepancies in the redevelopment of Seville’s Estadio de la Cartuja, a pivotal venue for the Spanish Copa del Rey final and significant international matches.
The Spanish government’s response to the crisis within the RFEF has been decisive, with the formation of a committee led by independent individuals of recognized standing tasked with overseeing the federation’s actions. This move, the government stated, is aimed at promoting a period of rejuvenation within the RFEF and safeguarding Spain’s broader interests.
However, the intervention by the government has attracted scrutiny from FIFA and UEFA, with both organizations expressing intentions to monitor the situation closely. FIFA regulations stipulate that football associations must operate autonomously, free from external influence, prompting vigilance from the global football governing bodies.
As Rocha assumes leadership of the RFEF amid turbulent times, the future trajectory of Spanish football remains uncertain, with the specter of corruption allegations casting a shadow over the sport’s administration and governance.
