Luis Manuel Rubiales Béjar: A Remarkable Journey from the Pitch to the Helm of Spanish Football

Luis Manuel Rubiales Béjar, born on August 23, 1977, in Las Palmas, Spain, is a name that resonates deeply within the world of Spanish football. His life story encompasses not only his time as a proficient defender on the field, but also his pivotal role as the President of the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) and his involvement as one of UEFA’s vice presidents. This blog delves into the life, accomplishments, and controversies that have marked Rubiales’ remarkable journey.

Early Life and Playing Career

Luis Manuel Rubiales was born in Las Palmas to parents Luis Manuel Rubiales Lopez, a primary school teacher, and Ángeles Béjar, a hairdresser. His formative years were spent in the tranquil town of Motril in the Province of Granada. With a height of 1.80 meters (5 feet 11 inches), Rubiales possessed not only physical prowess but also an unwavering determination that would define his playing career.

The majority of Rubiales’ playing career took place in the Segunda División, where he donned the jerseys of various clubs including Guadix CF, RCD Mallorca B, UE Lleida, Xerez CD, Levante UD, and Alicante CF. His time with Levante UD proved to be particularly fruitful as he contributed to their promotions to La Liga in both 2004 and 2006. His debut in the top-flight occurred on August 29, 2004, as a late substitute in a 1–1 draw against Real Sociedad.

Transition to Administrative Roles

Rubiales’ retirement from professional play did not signal an end to his relationship with football. Instead, it marked a transition to administrative roles, exemplifying his enduring commitment to the sport. He embraced a backroom role at Levante, a move that demonstrated his desire to give back to the game that had given him so much. Furthermore, his personal life saw him marrying Manuela Delicado Vega, a lawyer, and the couple welcomed three daughters into their lives.

Presidential Role and Challenges

In 2018, Rubiales assumed his most prominent position to date when he was elected as the president of the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF). This pivotal role empowered him to shape the future of Spanish football, a task he took on with passion and determination. In addition to his presidency, Rubiales earned recognition by becoming one of UEFA’s vice presidents, thus further elevating his influence within the European football landscape.

In March 2010, Rubiales assumed the role of president of the Association of Spanish Footballers (AFE), a significant position within the football community. His dedication to the sport and its players led him to this role, where he advocated for the rights and well-being of footballers. However, in November 2017, Rubiales made a consequential decision by resigning from his AFE post. This step was taken with a strategic intention – he aimed to position himself for a run for office at the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF). This pivotal move marked the beginning of a new phase in his journey, setting the stage for his subsequent rise to the presidency of RFEF.

Controversies and Lessons

However, as with many influential figures,Luis Manuel Rubiales Béjar’s journey has not been without its share of controversies. A significant incident arose during the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup final award ceremony, when a public kiss he shared with footballer Jennifer Hermoso was met with her statement that she did not consent to the gesture. This incident resulted in FIFA suspending Rubiales from his position, underscoring the intricacies of navigating personal and professional boundaries in the world of sports.

Legacy and Beyond

Luis Manuel Rubiales Béjar’s narrative is a testament to the multifaceted nature of a life intertwined with football. From his days as a promising defender to his role as a football official commanding international attention, Rubiales’ journey embodies dedication, ambition, and the complexities of the sport. As time goes on, his name will remain intertwined with the evolution and challenges of Spanish football, a lasting reminder of the intricate tapestry that is the beautiful game.