Punishing the World Cup kiss sends an important message about sexism in football

Although belated, the overdue action of Fifa in suspending Spanish FA president Luis Rubiales from all football-related activity over his unbecoming conduct at the conclusion of the Women’s World Cup final is absolutely justified and a welcome step.

Rubiales’s claim that the kiss planted on Spain’s World Cup winning team’s Jenni Hermoso was “spontaneous” could hold some water given the women team’s spectacular 2-1 win over Sweden.

However, claiming that it was “mutual, euphoric and consensual” is beyond the pale.

I am glad that he is now subject to a full investigation by Fifa, which sends an important message to all that sexism in football and even beyond is a big “NO” and should be abhorred in any form – be it in any sport or in the regular walk of life across the world.

Atul M Karnik New York

I read Jon Stone’s column with interest and real consternation that this dire disenfranchisement is still carrying on with no actual decision as yet to join this prestigious, productive and proactive scheme.

I have kept watch on this unbelievable procrastination, when every day there seems to be one step forward and so many going back. Our leading scientists must be at the end of their tether with this apparent stalemate. Enough. The government must listen to our leading experts, as identified by Cancer Research UK, as their scientific input into this still grave medical issue is desperately needed now more than ever.

Seemingly there will be a final decision in the autumn, and I would beg the prime minister and the “powers that be” to get this over the line or risk losing our leading world-renowned scientific role. Because counting the cost of joining might actually lead to counting lost lives, and the court of public opinion who rely on medical advances will not forgive or forget any short-sighted abrogation of our moral duty.

Judith A Daniels Norfolk

Donald Trump clearly thinks that he will gain the support of US voters by circulating a picture of himself looking like a sulky child. The world can only hope that he’s mistaken.

Susan Alexander South Gloucestershire

Sports occasions are emotive things, and so much more finals, and World Cup finals. People will do stupid things. More generally, should individuals lose their jobs because of one foolish action? Would the people calling for heads to roll really like a similar principle applied to their own working lives?

Cole Davis Norwich