The Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) has elected Rafael Louzán, 57, as its new president, marking a turning point for the scandal-ridden organization. Louzán, the head of Galicia’s regional football association, secured 90 votes to triumph over Salvador Gomar, chief of the Valencian FA, who received 43 votes in the two-way race after Sergio Merchan’s last-minute withdrawal.
This election comes after a turbulent period for Spanish football governance. Former president Luis Rubiales faced corruption charges and a looming trial for sexual assault following his controversial unsolicited kiss of player Jenni Hermoso after Spain’s 2023 Women’s World Cup victory. Pedro Rocha, who briefly succeeded Rubiales, was handed a two-year ban for irregularities during his tenure.
Louzán’s election offers hope for reform, but his own legal troubles may complicate the federation’s quest for a fresh start. In 2022, he was found guilty of malfeasance over a football pitch contract in Morana, barring him from public office for seven years. Louzán has denied the allegations and appealed the decision, with the Supreme Court set to hear his case in February.
The Spanish government, which created a special oversight committee to stabilize the RFEF earlier this year, will likely keep a close eye on Louzán’s tenure as the federation seeks to rebuild trust and credibility.
