Former Spanish Football Chief Luis Rubiales Stands Trial Over Non-Consensual Kiss
Luis Rubiales, the former president of the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), appeared in Madrid’s High Court today, facing charges of sexual assault and coercion following an unsolicited kiss he gave to player Jenni Hermoso during the 2023 Women’s World Cup medal ceremony. The incident, which occurred as Spain celebrated their 1-0 victory over England in Sydney, has ignited widespread discussions about consent and sexism in sports.
Hermoso’s Testimony
Jenni Hermoso, 34, Spain’s all-time top goal scorer, testified that she “never” consented to the kiss. Describing the event, she stated:
“I didn’t hear or understand anything. The next thing he did was to grab me by the ears and kiss me on the mouth. I knew I was being kissed by my boss, and that should not happen in any social or work environment.”
She emphasized that the incident “tainted one of the happiest days of my life.”
Charges and Potential Penalties
Rubiales, 47, faces charges of sexual assault and coercion. If convicted, he could receive a prison sentence ranging from one to four years. Prosecutors are advocating for a sentence of two and a half years, along with a €50,000 fine and a ban from sports management roles. Additionally, Hermoso is seeking a restraining order to prevent Rubiales from approaching her.
Co-Defendants and Allegations of Coercion
The trial also involves former women’s national team coach Jorge Vilda, ex-sporting director Albert Luque, and former RFEF marketing head Rubén Rivera. They are accused of pressuring Hermoso to publicly support Rubiales’ claim that the kiss was consensual. Prosecutors are seeking a one-and-a-half-year prison sentence for each, citing attempts to coerce Hermoso into recording a video backing Rubiales.
Background and Repercussions
The unsolicited kiss occurred during the medal ceremony after Spain’s Women’s World Cup victory in August 2023. Rubiales initially dismissed criticism, labeling his detractors as “idiots,” but later issued an apology, describing the kiss as spontaneous and without malintent. The incident led to his resignation and a three-year ban from football-related activities imposed by FIFA. It also sparked protests and a boycott by Spanish players, highlighting broader issues of sexism in sports.
Trial Proceedings
The trial is expected to last at least ten days, featuring testimonies from nearly 20 witnesses, including Hermoso’s teammates and Spain’s men’s national team coach Luis de la Fuente. Rubiales and his co-defendants are anticipated to testify towards the trial’s conclusion.
This case has become a focal point in Spain’s ongoing discourse on consent and gender dynamics, particularly within the realm of sports.
