Luis Rubiales, the former president of the Royal Spanish Football Federation, recently testified in court that Spanish football player Jenni Hermoso consented to the kiss he planted on her during the victory ceremony of the Women’s World Cup in 2023. Rubiales firmly claims this moment was spontaneous and an expression of affection, as he referenced their long-standing relationship and the celebratory atmosphere. The kiss has ignited a storm of criticism, leading to protests against Rubiales and calls for his resignation, as well as drawing media attention across the world.
Rubiales Insists World Cup Kiss Was Consensual in Court Testimony
Rubiales Insists World Cup Kiss Was Consensual in Court Testimony
In a high-profile court case, Luis Rubiales asserts that footballer Jenni Hermoso consented to a kiss during the Women's World Cup final.
During a hearing at Spain's National Court in Madrid, Rubiales, 47, maintained his position, asserting that Hermoso embraced him during the ceremony. "I kissed her because she was a champion. This was a tremendous moment for her," he said, clarifying that he thought she had approved of the affection. He recollected, “I asked her whether I could give her a kiss and she said yes.” However, his testimony stands in stark contrast to Hermoso's recent statements, where she testified that she did not provide approval for the kiss, claiming it tainted what should have been a joyous occasion.
As the proceedings continue, experts in lip reading testified that video footage suggested Rubiales asked Hermoso if he could kiss her, but her response remains ambiguous. Contrary evidence provided by her legal counsel refutes Rubiales’ assertion of consent, as Hermoso described the event as inappropriate and noted that it should not occur in any context, social or professional. The fallout from this incident has sparked a broader debate on sexual harassment and empowerment within women's sports in Spain, furthering a "Me Too"-style movement advocating for respect and equality.
While Rubiales conceded that he "made a mistake" during the ceremony, he remains adamant that no criminal actions were intended. With his legal woes compounded by a push from Spanish prosecutors for a substantial prison sentence, the trial is set to span until mid-February. Alongside him in court are three former colleagues accused of collaborating in coercing Hermoso to publicly downplay the controversy. All defendants deny the charges as the trial unfolds, demanding greater scrutiny of protocol surrounding consent and professional conduct in sports.
As the proceedings continue, experts in lip reading testified that video footage suggested Rubiales asked Hermoso if he could kiss her, but her response remains ambiguous. Contrary evidence provided by her legal counsel refutes Rubiales’ assertion of consent, as Hermoso described the event as inappropriate and noted that it should not occur in any context, social or professional. The fallout from this incident has sparked a broader debate on sexual harassment and empowerment within women's sports in Spain, furthering a "Me Too"-style movement advocating for respect and equality.
While Rubiales conceded that he "made a mistake" during the ceremony, he remains adamant that no criminal actions were intended. With his legal woes compounded by a push from Spanish prosecutors for a substantial prison sentence, the trial is set to span until mid-February. Alongside him in court are three former colleagues accused of collaborating in coercing Hermoso to publicly downplay the controversy. All defendants deny the charges as the trial unfolds, demanding greater scrutiny of protocol surrounding consent and professional conduct in sports.
