Pedro Sánchez, acting Spanish Prime Minister, on Rubiales' kiss to Jenni Hermoso: "Apologies have not been enough."

The acting Spanish Prime Minister, Pedro Sánchez, increased pressure on the President of the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), Luis Rubiales, on Tuesday by considering his kiss to player Jenni Hermoso at the World Cup as "an unacceptable gesture".

"I think what we saw was an unacceptable gesture," said Sánchez at a press conference after a meeting with King Felipe VI.

"I also believe that the apologies given by Mr. Rubiales are not enough, I even think they are not appropriate and therefore he has to continue taking steps," added the Spanish Prime Minister, without directly speaking about resignation.

Accustomed to overcoming controversies, Rubiales seems to be facing one of the most serious crises for him since taking office in 2018 in a country that has made the fight against sexist aggressions a flag.

When congratulating Jenni Hermoso for winning the World Cup title during the medal ceremony, Rubiales kissed the player on the mouth, and the images caused surprise and went around the world.