The court's decision also leads to a ban on further contact between Rubiales and Hermoso for a year.
Luis Rubiales Receives Fine for Unconsensual Kiss During World Cup Celebration
Luis Rubiales Receives Fine for Unconsensual Kiss During World Cup Celebration
Spain's former football federation chief is penalized after kissing player Jenni Hermoso without consent, sparking national outrage.
Luis Rubiales, the former head of Spain's football federation (RFEF), was convicted of sexual assault for kissing player Jenni Hermoso without her consent, as determined by Spain's High Court. The court ordered Rubiales to pay a fine of €10,800 (£8,942), while he was acquitted of coercion charges related to allegedly pressuring Hermoso to claim the kiss was consensual.
The controversial incident occurred during the trophy presentation after Spain's victory over England in the 2023 Women's World Cup. Rubiales grabbed Hermoso and kissed her, an act that was broadcast to millions and led to widespread protests and calls for his resignation. Following the verdict, the court mandated Rubiales to maintain a distance of 200 meters from Hermoso and prohibited him from any form of communication with her for one year.
During the trial, three associates of Rubiales faced similar coercion allegations but were found not guilty. Rubiales defended his actions, insisting the kiss was consensual and described it as a spontaneous act of affection. In contrast, Hermoso testified that she did not give permission for the kiss, emphasizing the inappropriateness of the act in a professional context and stating that it marred what should have been one of her happiest moments.
The incident has sparked a significant debate regarding sexism and the treatment of female athletes in Spain, fueling a "Me Too" movement aimed at promoting gender equality in sports. Rubiales, who stepped down in September 2023 amid intense public pressure following FIFA's suspension and the legal investigation, continues to contest the court's ruling.
The controversial incident occurred during the trophy presentation after Spain's victory over England in the 2023 Women's World Cup. Rubiales grabbed Hermoso and kissed her, an act that was broadcast to millions and led to widespread protests and calls for his resignation. Following the verdict, the court mandated Rubiales to maintain a distance of 200 meters from Hermoso and prohibited him from any form of communication with her for one year.
During the trial, three associates of Rubiales faced similar coercion allegations but were found not guilty. Rubiales defended his actions, insisting the kiss was consensual and described it as a spontaneous act of affection. In contrast, Hermoso testified that she did not give permission for the kiss, emphasizing the inappropriateness of the act in a professional context and stating that it marred what should have been one of her happiest moments.
The incident has sparked a significant debate regarding sexism and the treatment of female athletes in Spain, fueling a "Me Too" movement aimed at promoting gender equality in sports. Rubiales, who stepped down in September 2023 amid intense public pressure following FIFA's suspension and the legal investigation, continues to contest the court's ruling.
