Spain judge rejects Rocha’s appeal to lead the federation.

A recent ruling by a judge has resulted in a setback for Pedro Rocha, the president of the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF). The judge denied his request for a temporary injunction against a suspension that has effectively rendered him unable to fulfill his duties in this vital role, unless he can make a successful urgent appeal.

In July, just two days after Spain’s men’s team celebrated winning Euro 2024, Rocha was suspended from holding management positions in sporting organizations for two years. The Administrative Sports Court (TAD) found that he had exceeded his authority following the resignation of his predecessor, Luis Rubiales.

Rocha’s appeal for an injunction aimed to protect his ability to participate in the upcoming RFEF presidential elections, which are set to take place this month. The denial of this request by Madrid’s National High Court leaves Rocha at a crossroads, as he now risks not being able to run for the presidency and potentially ending his brief tenure leading Spanish football.

The judge stated that Rocha “did not provide any evidence” to substantiate his claims regarding “irreparable damage” that would occur should the injunction not be granted. The ruling highlighted the fact that there was no solid proof of the damages he claimed, especially since the elections to the RFEF’s General Assembly had not yet been called.

Unless Rocha manages to secure a successful outcome from an urgent appeal, he will be unable to contest for the presidency, bringing an end to his time at the helm of the RFEF. He assumed the role of acting president in 2023 after Rubiales resigned amid a criminal investigation and a FIFA suspension stemming from a controversial incident involving player Jenni Hermoso after Spain’s Women’s World Cup victory.

Prior to his appointment as acting president, Rocha served as vice president of the RFEF, working closely with Rubiales. Following the previous president’s resignation, Rocha and the interim committee of the RFEF initiated a series of significant reforms aimed at overhauling the federation’s practices and policies.

One of the pivotal changes made during this period was the dismissal of then-secretary general Andreu Camps in September 2023. However, the Administrative Sports Court later ruled that Rocha’s actions in terminating Camps constituted a “very serious” offense that overstepped his authority.

In what could set a critical precedent, the ongoing governance and management of the RFEF are crucial as the organization gears up to play an essential role in the preparation for the 2030 World Cup. Spain is set to co-host this global event alongside Portugal and Morocco, adding a layer of urgency and significance to the outcome of Rocha’s legal battles.

The future of leading figures in Spanish football remains uncertain. As Rocha grapples with his suspension and the possibility of not being able to run for the presidency, the RFEF faces a pivotal moment in its history, shaped by leadership disputes and a need for structural integrity in the wake of previous scandals.

This situation also casts a spotlight on the broader issues of governance in sports organizations, emphasizing the importance of clarity in authority and decision-making processes. As the RFEF approaches a potential transitional phase, all eyes will be on the developments surrounding Rocha and the federation’s leadership.