Spain Removes ‘Women’ from National Football Team Title

The Spanish Football Federation has made a significant change in its approach to the sport by removing the term “women’s football” from the name of its national team. This move is part of a broader effort to demonstrate a “conceptual shift” towards gender equality in Spanish football. The decision comes following a dispute between the federation and the World Cup-winning women’s team, stemming from a controversial incident where the former president, Luis Rubiales, kissed player Jenni Hermoso on the lips during a trophy ceremony.

Previously, the women’s team was referred to as “Selección Española de fútbol femenino” or “Spain’s national women’s football team.” Going forward, both the men’s and women’s national teams will be officially known as “Selección Española de fútbol” or “Spain’s national football team.”

Pedro Rocha, the interim president of the federation, emphasized that this change represents more than just a symbolic gesture; it signifies the recognition that football is a sport for all, regardless of gender.

While UEFA has informally discussed similar naming issues, there have been no official proposals made by the governing body. In contrast, countries like England and the United States have opted for gender-specific titles, using “men’s” and “women’s” national teams.

This shift in Spain’s approach to football comes after weeks of player protests and calls for reform, ultimately resulting in the resignation of Luis Rubiales and the dismissal of World Cup-winning coach Jorge Vilda. The changes are intended to further professionalize women’s football in Spain and promote gender equality, including equal pay for athletes.

Re-reported from the article originally published in The Euro News English