Luis Rubiales, former president of Spain’s football federation, is on trial for sexual assault after kissing Spanish player Jenni Hermoso without her consent following Spain’s victory over England in the 2023 Women’s World Cup final in Sydney.
Rubiales grabbed Hermoso by the head and kissed her on the lips during the celebration. Hermoso has stated the kiss was non-consensual, while Rubiales maintains it was.
The case has ignited widespread outrage, fueling conversations about sexism and consent in sports. Hermoso, now playing in Mexico, is set to testify as a witness in the trial, which runs until February 19.
The controversy sparked protests across Spain, calls for Rubiales’ resignation, and a political debate. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez condemned the incident, highlighting the need for continued progress toward gender equality and respect. His government has implemented reforms to promote gender equity, especially in sexual consent.
Initially defiant, Rubiales rejected the pressure to resign, accusing critics of engaging in a “witch-hunt” driven by “fake feminism.” However, after mounting pressure, he stepped down, and legal charges were filed.
Prosecutors are seeking a one-year prison sentence for sexual assault and another 18 months for coercion, alleging Rubiales pressured Hermoso to publicly state the kiss was consensual—a claim Rubiales denies.
Three colleagues, including World Cup-winning coach Jorge Vilda, face trial for alleged collusion in the coercion. All deny the charges.
Isabel Fuentes, a pioneering female footballer in the 1970s, lamented how the Rubiales scandal overshadowed Spain’s historic World Cup victory. Despite the controversy, younger players like Belén Peralta are optimistic about the growing support for women’s football, focusing on the sport’s progress and future potential.
