New Delhi: Rafael Louzan has been elected as the president of Spain’s Football Federation (RFEF) in the wake of a turbulent year marked by controversies surrounding its former leadership. Louzan, 57, who heads Galicia’s regional FA, received 90 votes, defeating Valencian FA chief Salvador Gomar, who managed only 43 votes. A last-minute withdrawal from Extremadura FA leader Sergio Merchan left the race as a two-way contest.
The elections come after former president Luis Rubiales resigned amid a corruption probe and sexual assault allegations related to his unsolicited kiss of player Jenni Hermoso after Spain’s 2023 Women’s World Cup victory. Rubiales is set to face trial in February, while his interim successor Pedro Rocha received a two-year ban over irregularities during his short tenure.
🚨| 𝐎𝐅𝐅𝐈𝐂𝐈𝐀𝐋: Rafael Louzán has been elected has the new President of RFEF (Spanish Football Federation) until 2028. 🇪🇸 pic.twitter.com/bgK314MZM0
— BarçaTimes (@BarcaTimes) December 16, 2024
Spain’s government had previously intervened, forming a special committee in April to oversee RFEF operations until fresh elections could be held. However, Louzan’s own legal troubles cast a shadow over hopes for a fresh start. In 2022, he was found guilty of malfeasance related to a football pitch contract but denied wrongdoing.
His appeal against a seven-year public office ban is due to be heard by the Supreme Court in February, just days before Rubiales’ trial.
Louzan, regarded as a consensus candidate, worked closely with key figures like LaLiga president Javier Tebas to secure support. After his victory, he emphasized unity within Spanish football. “It is time to recover the RFEF’s prestige. Together, we can achieve great results,” he told the assembly.
While his election could improve relations between RFEF and LaLiga after years of disagreements under Rubiales, Louzan’s legal battles could create new challenges. Should the Supreme Court uphold his ban, Spanish football might find itself back in crisis. For now, Tebas expressed confidence, saying Louzan’s leadership could bring stability and collaboration.
Spain’s Football Federation elects Rafael Louzan after Rubiales’ scandal and Rocha’s suspension disrupt leadership Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
