Former Spanish Football Chief Luis Rubiales Stands Trial Over World Cup Kiss
Spain’s former football federation president, Luis Rubiales, is facing trial for sexual assault and coercion after he kissed player Jenni Hermoso during the 2023 Women’s World Cup victory celebration. The case has sparked global discussions on sexism, consent, and gender equality in sports.
What Happened?
During Spain’s medal ceremony after their World Cup win against England, Rubiales grabbed Hermoso by the head and kissed her on the lips. While Hermoso stated the kiss was not consensual, Rubiales insisted otherwise. The incident led to public outrage, protests, and calls for his resignation.
While Rubiales insisted the kiss was consensual, Hermoso immediately refuted this, stating she never agreed to it. Her reaction and subsequent statements ignited global outrage, leading to widespread protests, calls for Rubiales’ resignation, and legal action.
Rubiales initially refused to step down, calling the backlash a “witch hunt driven by fake feminism.” However, growing pressure from the Spanish government, football authorities, and the public eventually led to his resignation in September 2023.
The Legal Battle
- Trial Dates: Runs until February 19.
- Prosecutors Seek: 1-year prison sentence for sexual assault and 1.5 years for coercion (for allegedly pressuring Hermoso to say the kiss was consensual).
- Other Defendants: Three former football officials, including ex-coach Jorge Vilda, also face charges for alleged coercion.
- Rubiales and all accused deny the charges.
Impact on Women’s Football
Veteran Spanish footballer Isabel Fuentes sees the case as overshadowing Spain’s historic World Cup win, calling it a “sad moment” for women’s football. Many fans are also concerned about how the controversy has affected Spain’s reputation on the international stage.
This case has amplified conversations about gender equality in sports. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez states that the incident shows “still a long way to go” in achieving genuine respect and equality between men and women.
