The former president of the Spanish Football Federation, Luis Rubiales, has been sentenced to pay a fine of 10,800 euros for sexual aggression following a forced kiss on player Jenni Hermoso during the 2023 World Cup celebrations. This decision was announced by the court on Thursday, and Rubiales’ lawyer has stated that they will appeal the sentence.
Background of the Case
Rubiales was facing a potential two and a half years in prison, as requested by the Prosecutor’s Office, for the kiss and the pressures exerted on Hermoso to downplay the incident. However, he was acquitted of the crime of coercion. Three other individuals, including former selector Jorge Vilda and two former leaders of the institution, were also acquitted of the same charge.
Prosecutor’s Request and Court Decision
The Prosecutor’s Office had requested a sentence of two and a half years in prison for Rubiales, with one year for the sexual assault and one and a half years for the pressures on Hermoso. The National Court ultimately sentenced Rubiales to 18 months with a fine of 20 euros per day for the crime of sexual aggression. Additionally, Rubiales is prohibited from approaching Hermoso within a 200-meter radius and is barred from communicating with her for a year.
Testimonies and Reactions
During the trial, prosecutor Marta Durántez stated that the kiss was “not consented,” while Hermoso reiterated that the kiss should never have happened and that she felt “little respected.” Rubiales, on the other hand, claimed that Hermoso had consented to the kiss, saying she had responded “Ok” when he asked if he could kiss her. His lawyer, Olga Tabau MartÃnez, argued that Rubiales’ behavior was “inadequate” but not “criminal” and denied any coercion.
The incident has sparked a significant reaction, with Hermoso becoming a symbol of the fight against sexism in sports. She reported that she had been asked multiple times by the RFEF to downplay the scandal. The case highlights the importance of consent and respect in all interactions, especially in the context of sports and public figures.