Luis Rubiales, the former head of Spain’s football federation, has been found guilty of sexual assault following an incident stemming from the 2023 Women's World Cup celebrations. The High Court in Madrid has ordered him to pay a €10,800 fine for kissing player Jenni Hermoso without her consent. While he was acquitted of coercion charges, accusations that he attempted to pressure Hermoso into publicly stating the kiss was consensual, the ruling prohibits him from approaching Hermoso within 200 meters or communicating with her for one year.
The controversial kiss occurred during the medal ceremony after Spain triumphed over England, and it sparked widespread outrage, leading to calls for Rubiales's resignation. He has since announced plans to appeal the verdict. Testifying in court, Hermoso expressed her distress over the incident, describing it as a stain on what should have been a joyful occasion, stating, “A kiss on the lips is only given when I decide so.”
Rubiales, who characterized the act as an "affectionate" and "spontaneous" gesture, faced calls for a more severe punishment, including possible imprisonment. The case has amplified discussions surrounding sexism in sports and has fueled a "Me Too"-style movement among female athletes in Spain, advocating for equality and respect in the workplace.
This incident has also led to a significant backlash, with just weeks before Rubiales resigned amidst mounting pressure, triggered by Fifa suspending him while investigations were launched by Spanish authorities. His former colleagues on trial alongside him for alleged collusion in coercion have all been acquitted, allowing them to navigate free of legal consequences.
