The trial of former Spanish football boss Luis Rubiales for alleged sexual assault begins today. Rubiales kissed player Jenni Hermoso after Spain won the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup. Hermoso alleges the kiss was not consensual, which Rubiales denies. Rubiales has been accused of sexual assault and coercion, and faces a prison term of up to two and a half years if he’s found guilty.
The kiss
Spain defeated England 1-0 to win theWomen’s World Cup in Sydney on 20 August 2023. During a medal ceremony after the game, Rubiales kissed Hermoso, which she has repeatedly alleged was without her consent. Following the incident, Hermoso alleges Rubiales and three other senior officials, including former coach Jorge Vilda, “persistently” pressured and threatened her to publicly say the kiss was consensual.
High Court
Hermoso filed a legal complaint, alleging sexual assault and coercion. Her complaint was escalated to Spain’s high court, which launched an inquiry to determine whether Rubiales should be tried. During the pre-trial inquiry, the court heard from witnesses including Hermoso. She said the kiss was “unexpected” and she didn’t have time to react.
Your contribution ensures The Daily Aus can continue doing the work you love.
I want to give $10 monthly to help TDA keep doing the news.
Your details:
Co-defendants
Three other men formerly involved with the Spanish football federation face trial for their alleged attempts to coerce Hermoso out of filing the complaint. They include Vilda, ex-marketing chief Rubén Rivera, and ex-sporting director Albert Luque. Prosecutors are seeking 18-month prison terms for all three.Rubiales, Vilda, Rivera and Luque will testify later this month.
Fallout
The kiss sparked calls for Rubiales’ resignation, and a player boycott and widespread protests were described as Spanish soccer’s #MeToo moment. On 11 September 2023, Rubiales officially resigned as head of the Spanish Football Federation. FIFA later banned him for three years.
