Luis Rubiales, the former president of the Spanish soccer federation, is on trial for kissing player Jenni Hermoso without consent. He asserts that she agreed to the kiss, claiming, “I’m totally sure (she gave consent),” and admitted it was a mistake, stating he let emotions override proper conduct expected of his position. Rubiales noted that there was pressure on Hermoso to downplay the kiss due to an institutional crisis, but he denied asking anyone to coerce her.
During the trial, Hermoso testified that she did not consent and felt disrespected, feeling the incident tarnished her World Cup victory. Despite her initial reactions suggesting minimal concern, she and her teammates later expressed feeling pressured regarding the aftermath of the kiss. An expert witness confirmed that Rubiales had asked for consent before the kiss.
In light of the incident, Rubiales resigned and received a three-year FIFA ban, while he described himself as a victim of a “witch hunt.” Prosecutors, alongside Hermoso and the players’ association, are seeking a two-and-a-half-year prison term for Rubiales and significant fines. The broader public outcry reflects ongoing issues of sexism in sports.