The Washington PostThe Washington Post

Strong women gave us a compelling World Cup. Weak men obscured it

By Jerry Brewer

29 Aug 2023 · 5 min read

informed Summary

  1. In the Washington Post, Jerry Brewer argues that a scandal involving the head of the Spanish soccer federation (RFEF) is indicative of the sexism that exists in many systems around the world. He calls for greater gender diversity in leadership roles and for people to be more aware of the tactics used by those who abuse their power to avoid accountability.

It has been a dismaying wait for snail justice. More than a week ago, Luis Rubiales went all cave man while supposedly celebrating the women who delivered Spain a World Cup championship. And he's still - technically, tenuously - the Spanish soccer president.

The long process, though sad and sickening, is nothing more than the usual rigmarole to hold a man accountable for his vile acts. At least this saga can't hide. Rubiales had the audacity to be at his worst on the sport's grandest stage. He grabbed Jenni Hermoso, Spain's star striker, by the head and planted an unwanted kiss on her mouth. He flung forward Athenea del Castillo over his shoulder. He tugged at his crotch while standing close to Queen Letizia and her 16-year-old daughter.

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