Alexia Putellas emphasized that Spain’s footballers are striving for broader changes beyond the realm of football, as the repercussions of Luis Rubiales’ actions following last month’s World Cup final persist.
Rubiales stepped down from his position as President of the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) earlier this week amid multiple investigations into his behavior following Spain’s 1-0 victory over England on Aug. 20, which included an unsolicited kiss on forward Jenni Hermoso.
Speaking after Barcelona Femení received the prestigious Medal of Honour from the Catalan parliament, two-time Ballon d’Or winner Putellas alluded to the events of the past month.
Putellas stated, “This distinction marks a paradigm shift. We are the first men’s or women’s team to receive this Medal of Honour — something unimaginable five, 15, or 20 years ago, but it has come to pass.”
She continued, “This achievement didn’t happen overnight, so I’d like to express my gratitude to all the trailblazers who, before us, championed women’s sports at Barça and other organizations. This medal belongs to them as well; we are acutely aware of that.”
Established in 2000, the Medal of Honour has been awarded to previous recipients such as Nobel Peace Prize laureates, former presidents, and first responders during the 2017 terrorist attacks in Barcelona. Pep Guardiola, in 2011, is the sole previous sport-related recipient.
“At Barça, we are contributing to building a fairer, more equitable society with increased opportunities through football,” Putellas added. “Our endeavors and achievements are making us role models for countless children, young people, and adults.”
“Our commitment to women’s sports and society is unwavering, but we need more support to continue growing, ensuring this isn’t just a passing trend. I would like to call for increased support for women’s football, additional and improved facilities, more playing fields, and increased grassroots investment.”
“Institutions must guarantee equal opportunities for both boys and girls to play football. We want all the girls who come after us to have the resources they need to enjoy, play, and succeed.”
“We are here for the long haul, to support those who come after us, because there’s still a long way to go. We see this today with the critical situation we face with the [RFEF] and the changes we’re advocating for, so no woman, whether in football or beyond, ever experiences disrespect or abuse.”
“We need consensus, bravery, and leadership from institutions. We won’t stop here; it’s what those who fought before us deserve, it’s what we deserve for the daily effort we put in, and it’s what all the girls and boys dreaming of being like us deserve. We won’t let you down.”
Barcelona received the award not only for their on-field success but also for the broader impact they’ve had on sports in Catalonia, especially for girls.
The Blaugrana have clinched four consecutive league titles, two of the last three Champions Leagues, and twice filled the Spotify Camp Nou, breaking attendance records in women’s football.
Despite several Barça players boycotting the World Cup due to a dispute with the RFEF, they were well-represented in Australia and New Zealand, with eight players featuring in the final.
However, this success has been marred by the fallout surrounding Rubiales, who is scheduled to appear in court as a defendant on Friday.
He faces charges of sexual assault for the unsolicited kiss and coercion for pressuring Hermoso and her family to issue statements justifying the events, as per prosecutors.
Rubiales’ conduct is also under investigation by FIFA and Spain’s top sports court [TAD].
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