Spanish Football Federation Appoints Pedro Rocha as President

Pedro Rocha Appointed as President of Spanish Football Federation

In a surprising turn of events, the Spanish football federation (RFEF) has appointed Pedro Rocha as its new president. The 69-year-old had been serving as interim president since the resignation of his predecessor, Rubiales, in September.

Rocha’s appointment comes after the Spanish government formed a special committee to oversee the RFEF until new elections could be held. However, the governing body’s electoral commission met on Friday morning and decided to appoint Rocha as the new president.

In a statement, the RFEF announced, “Pedro Rocha has today been proclaimed the new president of the Royal Spanish Football Federation, after having received the support of the majority of the assembly members of this institution that governs Spanish football.”

Rocha’s appointment comes amidst controversy, as he was placed under investigation in connection to a corruption probe into Rubiales. Despite this, Rocha maintains his innocence, stating that he has “no knowledge nor, therefore, any responsibility for the facts that are being investigated.”

Meanwhile, Rubiales, who was arrested earlier this month, is facing legal troubles of his own. Prosecutors are seeking a two-and-a-half-year jail term for Rubiales for allegedly receiving illegal commissions. He is also due to go on trial for sexual assault for kissing Spain forward Jenni Hermoso after last summer’s World Cup final.

Despite the off-field distractions, Spanish football continues to thrive on the pitch. The women’s national team recently won the World Cup in 2023, while the country is gearing up to co-host the men’s World Cup in 2030. Rocha’s leadership will be crucial in navigating the federation through these exciting times for Spanish football.