Luis Rubiales, the former president of the Royal Spanish Football Federation, testified in court that footballer Jenni Hermoso consented to the kiss he gave her following Spain’s Women’s World Cup victory in 2023. Rubiales, who faces charges of sexual assault and coercion, maintained that the act was spontaneous and misinterpreted. He stated, "In that moment it was something completely spontaneous," during his testimony at Spain's National Court in Madrid.
Rubiales Claims Hermoso Gave Consent for Controversial Kiss
Rubiales Claims Hermoso Gave Consent for Controversial Kiss
Former Spanish football chief defends himself in court, asserting kiss was consensual, as protests ignite post-World Cup victory.
The incident ignited widespread outrage, leading to protests demanding his resignation. Rubiales characterized the kiss as an “act of affection,” insisting that Hermoso responded positively when he inquired about kissing her. He described the moment as one filled with mutual gratitude post-victory, recounting how she embraced him tightly which prompted his request for a kiss.
However, Hermoso's prior statements countered Rubiales's claims, indicating she did not give her permission for the kiss and expressing that the event had tainted one of her life’s happiest moments. The court hearings included conflicting testimonies; an expert in lip reading suggested Rubiales indeed asked Hermoso for permission based on video analysis.
While acknowledging he "made a mistake" in his behavior, Rubiales denied any criminal conduct and suggested that he should have adhered to a more professional role during the ceremony. After the backlash, Rubiales resigned in September 2023 and has since faced significant legal challenges, along with three others implicated in the alleged coercion. Prosecutors are seeking a 2.5-year prison sentence for Rubiales as proceedings continue until February 19, 2024.
However, Hermoso's prior statements countered Rubiales's claims, indicating she did not give her permission for the kiss and expressing that the event had tainted one of her life’s happiest moments. The court hearings included conflicting testimonies; an expert in lip reading suggested Rubiales indeed asked Hermoso for permission based on video analysis.
While acknowledging he "made a mistake" in his behavior, Rubiales denied any criminal conduct and suggested that he should have adhered to a more professional role during the ceremony. After the backlash, Rubiales resigned in September 2023 and has since faced significant legal challenges, along with three others implicated in the alleged coercion. Prosecutors are seeking a 2.5-year prison sentence for Rubiales as proceedings continue until February 19, 2024.
