September 22 – Luis Rubiales was re-elected unopposed as president of the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) on Monday following the withdrawal in June of former Real Madrid and Spain goalkeeper Iker Casillas.
The result was inevitable after potential rivals fell by the wayside after failing to receive the necessary endorsements, giving him a clear run.
At the start of the year, there were suggestions that former Spanish prime minister Mariano Rajor might challenge Rubiales as a contender. But that did not materialise and Rubiales, elected in May 2018, was a shoo-in to carry on despite an ongoing feud with outspoken La Liga boss Javier Tebas over a series of issues that highlighted a widening split in the administration of Spanish football.
Tebas was quoted earlier this year as saying: “I prefer anyone to Rubiales,” adding the RFEF boss was “not qualified to lead” the federation.
But Rubiales now carries on for another four years having taken over from Angel Villar, who was removed following corruption charges.
One of Rubiales’ first decisions was to sack then Spain coach Julen Lopetegui just before the 2018 World Cup as a result of Lopetegui confirming he had agreed a deal to join Real Madrid immediately after the tournament.
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