Spain’s Football Federation Faces New Scandal as President Rocha Suspended

Days after Spain’s Euro 2024 triumph, the country’s football federation (RFEF) faced a new scandal as its president, Pedro Rocha, was handed a two-year suspension. According to Spanish media outlets Onda Cero and Iusport, Spain’s Administrative Tribunal of Sport (TAD) suspended Rocha for making decisions beyond his authority, including dismissing the federation’s general secretary, Andreu Camps. Rocha had assumed the presidency in April, succeeding the disgraced former chief, Luis Rubiales, who stepped down in September 2023 following a controversial incident involving player Jenni Hermoso.

The tribunal’s decision, which prohibits Rocha from holding any position in a sporting federation for two years, could disqualify him from running in the upcoming RFEF presidential elections in September. Rocha and Rubiales are under investigation for corruption during Rubiales’ presidency, further tarnishing the federation’s reputation. Rocha intends to appeal the TAD’s decision and seek permission to remain in his position until the appeal is resolved, allowing him to participate in the autumn elections.

Spain’s National Sports Council (CSD), which oversees the TAD, did not respond to requests for comment on the matter. The scandal adds to the turbulent period for the RFEF, overshadowing Spain’s recent footballing successes and raising concerns about governance within the federation.

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