The scandal that rocked Spanish football refuses to die down as former Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) president, Luis Rubiales, stands his ground in court, insisting that Spanish footballer Jenni Hermoso consented to the infamous World Cup final kiss. The case has gripped global attention and has now turned into a heated legal battle that could redefine professional sports ethics and power dynamics.
Rubiales Defends Himself in Court
Appearing before Spain’s National Court in Madrid, Rubiales, 47, described the kiss as an “act of affection,” claiming it was “completely spontaneous.” The incident occurred during the medal ceremony following Spain’s historic 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup victory in Australia, triggering a storm of protests and calls for his resignation. Despite the backlash, Rubiales has maintained his innocence, denying any form of criminal wrongdoing.
In his testimony, Rubiales recalled that Hermoso had embraced him tightly before the kiss. “I’ve known her for many years and kissed her because she was a champion. It was a tremendous moment for her,” he stated.
Lip-Reading Expert Backs Rubiales, But Questions Remain
Rubiales’ legal team brought a lip-reading expert who testified that video footage suggested the ex-football boss had asked Hermoso, “Can I give you a kiss?” However, the expert admitted that Hermoso’s response was not visible, adding to the uncertainty surrounding the incident.
Spanish prosecutors, however, are not convinced. They argue that Hermoso was coerced into downplaying the situation, with multiple witnesses testifying that she had been pressured to publicly state the kiss was consensual.
Hermoso’s Emotional Testimony: ‘He Stained One of the Happiest Days of My Life’
In a striking contrast, Hermoso’s testimony painted a different picture. The Spanish forward, who now plays in Mexico, told the court that she had never consented to the kiss and that the incident had overshadowed what should have been the greatest moment of her career. “My boss was kissing me, and this shouldn’t happen in any social or work setting,” she asserted.
Hermoso further revealed that she was immediately pulled aside after the incident and asked to agree to a statement minimizing the controversy—an offer she refused. She also claimed Rubiales later pressured her to record a video with him on the flight home to defuse the backlash.
Trial Exposes Power Struggles in Spanish Football
The trial has exposed deeper issues within Spanish football, particularly the treatment of female players. The controversy has fueled a larger movement against sexism in the sport, with many calling for structural reforms within the RFEF.
Rubiales resigned in September 2023 after weeks of defiance, following a suspension by FIFA and the launch of a criminal investigation. Alongside Rubiales, three former colleagues—Jorge Vilda (former women’s national team coach), Rubén Rivera (ex-RFEF head of marketing), and Albert Luque (former sporting director)—are also on trial for allegedly pressuring Hermoso into defending Rubiales publicly. If convicted, they could each face more than a year in prison.
Spanish prosecutors are pushing for a two-and-a-half-year jail sentence for Rubiales, arguing that his actions and subsequent attempts to manipulate Hermoso warrant serious punishment. The trial, which runs until February 19, will determine whether justice is served or if this case becomes yet another chapter in the battle for gender equality in sports.
Is this a case of overreaction, or does it highlight a deeper issue of power and consent in professional football? Share your thoughts!