In a recent court hearing, Luis Rubiales, the former president of the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), asserted that Spanish footballer Jenni Hermoso consented to the controversial kiss he planted on her during the 2023 Women’s World Cup final. Rubiales is currently facing charges of sexual assault and coercion, with allegations suggesting he pressured Hermoso to publicly declare the kiss was consensual.
Rubiales defends his actions
During his testimony at Spain’s National Court in Madrid, Rubiales, 47, expressed his conviction that Hermoso granted permission for the kiss, describing it as a spontaneous gesture of affection. He stated, “In that moment it was something completely spontaneous,” while recalling the events following Spain’s victory in Australia.
Rubiales recounted, “Jenni embraced me. I’ve known her for many years and I kissed her because she was a champion. This was a tremendous moment for her. We were champions, we were thanking each other.” He claimed that Hermoso had pressed him “very hard by the waist” and that he sought her consent before the kiss, which she allegedly granted.
Contradictory accounts emerge
Under cross-examination, Rubiales was asked whether he had requested a kiss, to which he answered, “I can’t remember exactly. But I think it was a little kiss.” He acknowledged being aware of protocols regarding sexual harassment and violence but maintained that his actions did not constitute a crime.
“My boss was kissing me, and this shouldn’t happen in any social or work setting,”
said Hermoso in her previous court testimony, emphasizing that she never gave permission for the kiss and describing the incident as having “stained one of the happiest days of my life.” She further recounted that shortly after the kiss, she was pressured to issue a statement downplaying the incident, which she refused.
Hermoso also revealed she received death threats following the incident, leading her to relocate her family to Mexico, where she currently plays football.
Adding to the proceedings, a lip-reading expert testified that Rubiales had asked Hermoso, “can I give you a kiss?” based on video evidence. Rubiales admitted to making a mistake on the podium, acknowledging that his behavior was inappropriate while insisting that he did not commit an offense.
With the trial ongoing and scheduled to conclude on February 19, Rubiales faces potential imprisonment of two-and-a-half years if convicted. He resigned from his position in September 2023 following FIFA’s suspension and the initiation of a legal investigation.
Three other former officials, including Jorge Vilda, the coach of Spain’s victorious team, are also on trial for alleged collaboration in coercive actions related to the case. All defendants maintain their innocence amid these serious charges.