Former Football Chief Defends Actions in Court, Denies Sexual Assault Allegations
Luis Rubiales, the former president of Spain’s football federation, testified in court on February 11, claiming that footballer Jenni Hermoso consented to the kiss he gave her after Spain’s victory at the 2023 Women’s World Cup. Speaking during his trial in Madrid, Rubiales maintained that the kiss, which occurred on the podium following Spain’s win in Sydney, was “spontaneous” and that Hermoso had given him permission.
“I am absolutely sure she gave me her consent,” Rubiales asserted in court. The 47-year-old, who is accused of sexual assault for kissing Hermoso on the lips without her consent, defended his actions, insisting that the gesture was entirely voluntary. Hermoso, however, has stated that she did not agree to the kiss.
Rubiales was questioned about whether he frequently kissed people on the lips, to which he responded that the occasion warranted such an action and that he had known Hermoso for years. He also noted that he would have shown similar affection to a male player or even one of his daughters. “You don’t win a World Cup every day,” he said, drawing comparisons to his personal life and how he might kiss his daughters on special occasions like New Year’s Eve.
The kiss, witnessed by millions around the world during the awards ceremony, sparked controversy and contributed to a broader “Me Too” movement, with female athletes speaking out against sexism and demanding equal treatment in sports. Rubiales faces a potential prison sentence of two and a half years, although under Spanish law, sentences of less than two years can be substituted with fines if the individual has no prior convictions.
In addition to Rubiales, other former Spanish football federation officials—Jorge Vilda, Albert Luque, and Ruben Rivera—are also on trial for allegedly pressuring Hermoso into publicly stating that the kiss was consensual. They have denied the charges.
The incident, which took place after Spain’s victory over England on August 20, 2023, saw Rubiales controversially celebrate by clutching his crotch in front of Queen Letizia and Princess Sofia. The kiss itself followed during the medal ceremony when Rubiales allegedly lifted Hermoso and pulled her towards him.
Hermoso, testifying last week, said that the kiss overshadowed what should have been one of the happiest moments of her career. A verdict in the case is expected in March, following the conclusion of witness testimony.
