Jorge Vilda led his team to a World Cup title just over two weeks ago, but Spain’s soccer coach is out of a job today … as fallout from the Luis Rubiales kiss incident continues.
42-year-old Vilda was fired by the Spanish soccer federation on Tuesday, days after the coach applauded Rubiales for refusing to resign … despite mounting pressure from within the country, and around the world.
Prior to getting the ax, Vilda — who is an ally of Rubiales — was the lone remaining member of the staff that beat England in the World Cup final on August 20 in Australia.
All of the other coaches, 11 in total, resigned in a show of support for Jenni Hermoso, who was kissed by Spain’s soccer president during the postgame celebration following the championship-clinching game.
Of course, Rubiales was suspended by FIFA for 90 days … as officials within Spain continue to investigate the incident.
It’s hard to imagine a scenario where Rubiales returns … the entire team has vowed not to play unless he is forced out.
As for Vilda, who took over control of the women’s team in 2015, his tenure at the helm wasn’t without controversy.
He barely survived a player-led revolt in September 2022, when many on his team accused the coach of treating them poorly, and demanded better working conditions. Vilda kept his job, but many of the unhappy players opted not to return for the World Cup.
Vilda has not yet addressed his firing.
