Former Spanish Football Chief Rubiales Fined for Non-Consensual Kiss
Spain’s High Court has fined former football federation president Luis Rubiales over €10,000 for kissing player Jenni Hermoso without her consent. The incident occurred during the 2023 Women’s World Cup awards ceremony in Sydney, overshadowing Spain’s historic victory.
Rubiales, 47, was found guilty of sexual assault but acquitted of coercion charges on Thursday. The court ordered him to stay at least 200 meters away from Hermoso and prohibited any communication with her for one year. Additionally, he must pay Hermoso €3,000 in compensation.
Throughout the trial, Rubiales maintained that the kiss was consensual, but Judge José Manuel Fernández-Prieto sided with Hermoso’s testimony, stating that the offense, while serious, did not involve violence or intimidation.
The case sparked a nationwide conversation in Spain about sexism in sports and society, fueling a broader movement advocating for women’s rights. Prosecutors had sought a prison sentence for Rubiales, but the judge opted for a monetary fine, citing the nature of the offense.
Hermoso’s lawyer, Ángel Chavarría, announced plans to appeal the verdict, seeking further accountability. Rubiales also stated his intent to appeal, saying, “I am going to keep fighting.”
The scandal has led to increased scrutiny of the treatment of women in sports, igniting discussions among fans and players alike. It has also prompted calls for systemic changes within sports organizations to ensure respect and equality.
