Luis Rubiales remarkably defends Jenni Hermoso kiss amid refusal to step down as Spanish FA president

Luis Rubiales defended his behaviour during the Women's World Cup final and refused to step down as Spanish FA president.

The 46-year-old has received wide-spread criticism for kissing forward Jenni Hermoso on the lips after Spain's 1-0 victory over England in the World Cup final at Stadium Australia, Sydney.

Rubiales had also earlier grabbed his crotch as he celebrated at the final whistle.

However, speaking to the general assembly, which had be called by the federation, Rubiales said: "I will not resign, I will not resign. A social assassination is taking place."

Rubiales had apologised for the kiss on Monday only for FIFA to open disciplinary proceedings against him three days later.

But at the general assembly the Spanish football executive defended his actions, claiming he tried to console Hermoso after she had a late penalty saved by England keeper Mary Earps.

"Jenni was the one who lifted me up," he said. "I told her to 'forget about the penalty' and I said to her 'a little peck?' and she said 'OK'.

"It was a spontaneous kiss. Mutual, euphoric and consensual. That's the key.

"A consensual 'peck' is enough to get me out of here? I will fight until the end."

Rubiales did apologise for grabbing his crotch while celebrating in the VIP area of the ground, with Queen Letizia of Spain and her 16-year-old daughter stood nearby.

Rubiales said: "I'm ready to be vilified to defend my ideals. I don't deserve this manhunt I have been suffering.

"I want to apologise without reservations for everything that happened in the box, when in a moment of euphoria I grabbed that part of my body that you have already seen.

"Of course I have to apologise, to the Queen, and to everyone who has felt offended. I have been in countless boxes and I have never behaved like that."

Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez insisted that Rubiales' initial apology was "not enough" while second deputy prime minister Yolanda Diaz joined the contingent of people calling on him to resign.

Topics: Football, Womens Football, Womens World Cup, Spain

Chris Byfield

Sport journalist with experience writing on football, rugby, boxing and the Olympics. I'm also a Crystal Palace fan. Please don't hold this against me.