Sarina Wiegman showed true colours after controversy tore through Spain before Euro 2025

Sarina Wiegman supported Spanish stars after Luis Rubiales was found guilty of sexual assault, in a touching display of solidarity. Spain's victory over England in the 2023 World Cup final was overshadowed after Rubiales, the former president of the Spanish football federation, sexually assaulted midfielder Jenni Hermoso during the trophy presentation.

The 47-year-old sparked outrage when he kissed Hermoso on the lips as the Spanish players collected their medals. FIFA slapped him with a three-year ban from football, and the former defender was later found guilty of sexual assault. Rubiales, who denied the charges and unsuccessfully appealed his football ban, was fined £8,560. England boss Wiegman was one of the key figures in women's football to rally around Spain.

Speaking after Rubiales was found guilty earlier this year, Wiegman said: "It is very hard to talk about that now after football. On the other hand, you have to talk about it. I stand with the Spanish players and it is very sad that they have this on their path.

"It is changing society and that is good. They have so much courage to stand for this and themselves. It is solidarity with them. We should be talking about the Spanish team and how good they are."

England defender Lucy Bronze also backed Spain. She said: "It's been incredible that the players have had to go through that. Not only winning the World Cup and the media outside of it but they are in the court case and they are speaking out.

"It's incredibly brave of the individuals and the team involved. They are fighting for change - not just within the court case - but they are fighting for change in their federation. It's amazing.

"As an England team, we've made changes in our federation - not at the same extent or for the same reason - but we stand by the Spanish players. As a team, we wish them all the best and want them to get what they deserve.

"We want them to just enjoy their football. Having been there last year at Barcelona and watching all the players go through the ordeals after the World Cup, [it] was challenging off the pitch for them. It would be nice for them to get back to focusing on their football because they are incredible people and unbelievable players."

Wiegman led England to a thrilling victory over Spain in the European Championship final last week. Chloe Kelly scored the winning penalty in the shootout to land the Lionesses back to back Euros triumphs.