Football is not only known for its exciting matches and passionate audience, but it also experiences its fair share of controversies and scandals. Several incidents occurred in the year 2023 that shook the football community and made global news.

Here are some of the football controversies that have gripped fans and the media alike in 2023.

1. Hermoso - Rubiales kissing controversy

Spain's historic win against England in the Women's World Cup final should have been an occasion of celebration. However, things went controversial during the trophy ceremony, when then-RFEF President Luis Rubiales aggressively kissed star player Jenni Hermoso on the lips while seizing her head with both hands. Hermoso's obvious anguish, as well as the viral video clip, provoked quick outrage.

The Spanish Federation President initially ignored the criticism and refused to quit. He did, however, suffer an outpouring of criticism, ranging from legal advisors to common people calling for his resignation. FIFA eventually barred him from participating in football-related activities for three years.

2. Serie A betting controversy

Italian football has never been short of off-field controversies and this time the country has been rocked with illegal betting controversy.

The most recent scandal involves around 40 Italian players, including numerous stars from the top-tier Serie A. Juventus midfielder Nicolo Fagioli was the first guilty of the offense and has been banned from football for seven months.

Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali has also been found guilty and has been banned for ten months. Several players and their agents now have chosen to cooperate closely with their ongoing investigation.

3. Dani Alves Rape case

Former Brazil and Barcelona legend Dani Alves was accused of sexually assaulting a woman in a nightclub in Barcelona and was provisionally detained in January in Spain. He has denied any wrongdoing and said sex with the accuser was consensual.

However, so far he has yet to make a strong case for him. He has been in jail for almost eight months now. Alves could face a years in prison sentence if found guilty.

4. Brazil football fixing scandal

Brazilian football was entangled in a web of corruption in February 2023. Authorities nabbed 18 people implicated in a large-scale match-fixing scam in the Série B, the second division including players, referees, and club officials.

The incident not only jeopardized the competition's integrity but also sparked questions about football's vulnerability to organized crime.