Australia and New Zealand will host the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 from July 20 to August 20.

Luis Rubiales Drama

Fallout from Leadership: Rubiales’ Ouster and Potential 15-Year Ban

The sudden removal of Luis Rubiales from his role as the president of the Spanish Football Federation has sent shockwaves through the football world. His once-respected position has been compromised, leading to a series of significant consequences that reach far beyond the boundaries of Spain. Amidst this upheaval, FIFA’s investigation into Rubiales’ actions looms large, threatening to impose a 15-year ban on the former president. This potential punishment, as disclosed by the “Daily Mail,” not only highlights the severity of the situation but also underscores the enforcement power of the FIFA Disciplinary Code. The intricate dynamics of leadership and governance within football organizations come to the forefront as the world watches how this high-stakes drama unfolds.

A Multi-Million Dollar Blow for Rubiales

Luis Rubiales’ fall from grace has brought forth substantial financial repercussions, further compounding the challenges he faces. Stripped of his presidency, Rubiales finds himself not only without a position of authority but also grappling with significant financial losses. With his former salary of R$ 3 million now forfeited due to his suspension, his financial stability takes a hit. Moreover, the loss of his role as a member of the UEFA Executive Committee, accompanied by its R$ 1.3 million earnings, further contributes to his financial woes. This combination of losses culminates in a staggering amount of around R$ 5 million. As Rubiales navigates the legal and ethical dimensions of his situation, the monetary consequences underscore the multifaceted nature of his downfall.

FIFA Investigation and Broader Implications

The catalyst for the cascade of events leading to Luis Rubiales’ downfall is the investigation launched by FIFA in response to his inappropriate behavior. The incident involving a forced kiss on Jenni Hermoso, a player in the Spanish national team, has sparked concerns about his adherence to ethical standards outlined in the FIFA Disciplinary Code, specifically referencing article 13. As the investigation unfolds, the legal dimension of the situation becomes increasingly pronounced. The Public Prosecutor’s Office of the National Court of Spain has filed a lawsuit against Rubiales, amplifying the legal ramifications of his actions. Beyond the legal aspects, the incident also brings to light broader questions about consent and respect within the sports community.

On another front, the situation introduces a human element, as the Public Prosecutor’s Office endeavors to examine the perspective of Jenni Hermoso. The player’s potential intention to file a complaint against the removed RFEF president signifies the gravity of the incident. Within a prescribed timeframe of 15 days, Hermoso is expected to respond to inquiries, while also being informed about her rights as a victim of a perceived act of sexual assault. In the public domain, Hermoso has already taken a stance, offering insight into her viewpoint regarding the incident.

The fall of Luis Rubiales from the presidency of the Spanish Football Federation reverberates through the realms of leadership, finance, law, ethics, and human rights. As FIFA’s investigation progresses, the far-reaching consequences of his actions continue to unfold, leaving an indelible mark on the football landscape and prompting a broader dialogue on accountability, conduct, and safeguarding within the sports community.

A Mother’s Resolute Stand

As the storm of controversy rages around Luis Rubiales, a poignant and resolute gesture emerges from his mother, who stands firmly in defense of her son. In a bold move that underscores the depth of her conviction, she has taken up a hunger strike as a form of protest against any potential penalties that might be imposed on Rubiales. Her determination to safeguard her son’s reputation transcends the boundaries of a family bond and becomes a powerful statement of support in the face of adversity. Amidst the legal intricacies, financial ramifications, and ethical debates, her hunger strike adds a unique dimension to the narrative, emphasizing the lengths to which a loved one is willing to go to protect and uphold the honor of a family member. Her unwavering stance further underscores the human complexities that intertwine with the broader discussions surrounding Rubiales’ actions and their consequences.

Australia and New Zealand will host the FIFA Women's World Cup 2023 from July 20 to August 20.

FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 Australia&New Zealand: Preview

Australia and New Zealand will be the host of the FIFA Women’s World Cup from July 20 to August 20. This is the first time for the tournament to be co-hosted by two nations from different confederations.

Thirty-two teams are participating in the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 in Australia and New Zealand, including the U.S. as the reigning champions. For the first time, this event has 32 participating countries, allowing Southeast Asian nations such as Vietnam and the Philippines and countries like Zambia to mark their debut in this tournament.

Five cities in Australia will host the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023; Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth, Adelaide, and Sydney. At the same time, New Zealand has four hosting cities; Wellington, Hamilton, Dunedin, and Auckland.

When will the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup kick-off?

The  FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 kicks off on July 20. The group stage runs from July 20 to August 3. Then, the round of 16 is schedule to run from August 5 to August 8. The quarterfinals will be held from August 11 and August 12. The semifinals will be on August 15 and August 16. While the third-place match and the final will occur on August 19 and August 20, respectively.

Eight nations will mark their debuts in the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 Australia and New Zealand; Haiti, Zambia, Morocco, Portugal, Panama, Republic of Ireland, Vietnam, and the Philippine.

To get a better overview of the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023, let’s take a look at the eight groups:

Group A: New Zealand, Norway, Switzerland, the Philippine

The Philippines marked their debut in the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 after beating Chinese-Taipeh in a dramatic penalty shoot-out at the 2022 AFC Women’s Asia Cup.

This achievement is great news for Filipino women in sports after weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz clinched the country’s first gold medal in the Summer Olympics 2020 in Tokyo.

New Zealand will also hunt for their first victory in the tournament while Norway-the 1995 winner—and Switzerland are predicted to qualify for the round of 16.

Group B: Australia, Republic of Ireland, Nigeria, Canada

Despite the host nation’s arduous struggle, Australia’s Sam Kerr will be one of the tournament’s goal machines. Canada—the gold medalist of women’s football in the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo—is predicted to go through.

The Republic of Ireland will mark their debut in the tournament. While Nigeria can be one of the black horses despite failing to win the WAFCON title.

Group C-Spain, Costa Rica, Zambia, Japan

Spain’s preparation once was hampered by resignation demands from 15 players due to the alleged sexual harassment conducted by manager Jorge Vilda. Also, it is uncertain whether Alexia Putellas—the two-time Ballon d’Or winner—will participate in the event due to the injury.

Japan will be the real test for Spain. While Costa Rica can be a dark horse and Zambia will mark their debut in the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023.

Group D-England, China, Haiti, and Denmark

England—the reigning women’s Euro winner—will be the this tournament’s favorite. However, Denmark and China can be threats, too, and they will likely compete for the runner-up spot if England comes as the group winner.

Group E-U.S Netherlands, Vietnam, and Portugal

The reigning champions U.S., will be predicted to go through easily. U.S. vs Netherlands—the 2019 final rematch will be the most anticipated match. Portugal can be a dark horse of the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023, and Vietnam will mark their debut in the tournament.

Vietnam’s football—both men’s and women’s—has seen significant progress in the past few years. In the men’s category, Vietnam national team won the 2018 AFF tournament and reached the quarterfinal of the AFC Asian Cup a year later. Their junior team reached the U-23 AFC Final in 2018 but lost to Uzbekistan.

Vietnam’s women’s football team also reached the 2018 AFC final before losing to Japan.

Group F-Brazil, France, Panama, Jamaica

Brazil and France are the heavyweights of this group, and the meeting between both teams will be one of the most exciting matches.

France’s national women’s football team have lots of potential, but they never reach the top. At the same time, Brazil’s Marta will be playing her sixth World Cup if she recovers from injury.

Group G-Sweden, Italy, Argentina, South Africa

Sweden reached the semifinals in the last three Women’s World Cups, making them one of the favorites in this tournament.

While other teams have yet to show consistent performances so far. South Africa- the Women’s World Cup winners—lost in the last four friendlies (against Australia, Brazil, and Netherlands).

Italy has yet to win a single game in the recent Euro tournament. In contrast, Argentina has yet to show progress since 2019.

However, the Italy vs. Argentina meeting will be fascinating, given none of them played each other in the women’s tournament. Both will be eager to uphold the tradition of football success, like in the men’s category.

Group H-Germany, Morocco, Colombia, South Korea

Germany will easily advance to the 16 round in the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023, thanks to their reputation in the Women’s World Cup. They were the 2022 Euro finalist (before losing to England) and are currently ranked 3rd in the world.

Colombia and South Korea aim to improve their performance in the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 after reaching the knock-out phase in the 2015 tournament. In comparison, Morocco’s women’s football team will be the first Arab nation to take part in the World Cup. Morocco made history in the men’s category by reaching the semifinals in the FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar.