Former president of the Spanish football federation, Luis Rubiales, has been convicted of sexual assault for kissing player Jenni Hermoso without her consent. Spain’s High Court has mandated that Rubiales pay a fine of €10,800 (£8,942) as part of the ruling.
Rubiales was acquitted of coercion charges, which alleged he tried to pressure Hermoso into publicly stating that the kiss was consensual. The incident occurred during the medal ceremony following Spain’s victory over England in the 2023 World Cup when Rubiales pulled Hermoso in and kissed her on the lips.
Legal repercussions and testimonies
The court’s ruling also includes a restraining order prohibiting Rubiales from approaching Hermoso within 200 meters, as well as barring any communication for a duration of one year. Additionally, three of Rubiales’s former associates—Jorge Vilda, coach of the victorious team; Rubén Rivera, former head of marketing at the Real Federación Española de Fútbol (RFEF); and Albert Luque, ex-sporting director—were acquitted of collusion in the coercion allegations.
Prosecutors had sought a prison sentence for Rubiales, who, during the trial, professed that he was “absolutely sure” Hermoso had consented to the kiss. He characterized the moment as an “act of affection,” claiming it was “something completely spontaneous.” However, Hermoso’s testimony contradicted this assertion, as she stated that the incident had “stained one of the happiest days of my life,” asserting she had not given permission for the kiss.
“The kiss was not consensual,” Hermoso testified, emphasizing the violation of her autonomy.
Impact on Spanish women’s football
The incident, broadcast to millions worldwide, sparked widespread outrage and protests, calling for Rubiales’s resignation. This outcry has galvanized a “Me Too”-style movement within Spanish women’s football, empowering players to confront sexism and strive for equality with their male counterparts. Following weeks of pressure and a suspension from FIFA, Rubiales ultimately resigned in September 2023 as the investigation by Spanish prosecutors commenced.