Huge twist in ‘kissgate’ scandal as WC-winning coach sacked

The manager of the Spanish women’s football team has been sacked in the wake of the so-called “kissgate” scandal.

Jorge Vilda led Spain to World Cup glory beating England 1-0 in the final held in Sydney in August.

However, he has been under scrutiny for backing controversial Spanish FA President Luis Rubiales who kissed player Jenni Hermoso on the lips during the celebrations.

That quick move has continued to rock Spain.

In late August, Vilda, 42, had applauded Rubiales’ speech to the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) where the president had defended his actions.

Rubiales in turn called him the best coach in women’s football and offered Vilda new four-year contract worth $840,000.

Days later, Vilda backtracked on his praise and criticised Rubiales – but did not call for him to step down.

‘Deepest regret’

On Tuesday, the RFEF announced Vilda would be let go.

“the Reef wants to convey to the whole of society and to the whole of world football its deepest regret for what has happened, which has tarnished our national team, our football and our society,” the statement said.

“The damage caused to Spanish football, to Spanish sport, to Spanish society and to the values of football and sport as a whole has been enormous.”

“The coach was key to the notable growth of women’s football and leaves Spain as world champions and second in the FIFA rankings,” it said in a statement.

“The Royal Spanish Football Federation, in one of the first measures of restructuring announced by (interim) President Pedro Rocha, has decided to let go of the services of Jorge Vilda as sporting director and women’s national team coach, the latter of which he took on in 2015.

“RFEF appreciates his work at the head of the national team and his