Rubiales is facing charges of sexual assault and coercion while denying any wrongdoing as he navigates the fallout from the infamous incident that has sparked widespread reactions.
Rubiales Claims Consent from Hermoso in Controversial Court Testimony
Rubiales Claims Consent from Hermoso in Controversial Court Testimony
Luis Rubiales asserts that Spanish footballer Jenni Hermoso consented to the kiss he gave her after the Women's World Cup final, amidst ongoing legal scrutiny.
In a dramatic court session in Madrid, Luis Rubiales, the former president of the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), testified that Spanish footballer Jenni Hermoso had given her consent for him to kiss her following Spain’s triumphant performance at the Women’s World Cup 2023. Rubiales, currently on trial for sexual assault and alleged coercion, stated emphatically to the National Court that their interaction was “completely spontaneous” and an expression of gratitude after a landmark victory.
The controversial kiss took place during the medal ceremony on the pitch in Australia and has resulted in a fierce debate surrounding consent, sparking demonstrations and demands for Rubiales' resignation. Denying any criminal conduct, Rubiales described the kiss as “an act of affection,” maintaining that Hermoso had reached out to him in excitement. He recounted his recollection of events, suggesting he had asked for a “little kiss” or something similar, making it clear that he felt she consented in that moment.
Hermoso, however, has countered Rubiales’ claims in court, asserting she had never approved of being kissed and characterized the moment as a stain on what should have been one of her happiest days. In a twist of courtroom drama, an expert in lip reading supported Rubiales’ assertion, stating that he could be seen asking for permission based on video footage, although Ms. Hermoso's reaction remains unrecorded in the same frame.
While Rubiales did admit to having made a "mistake" during the ceremony, lamenting that his behavior was not appropriate for someone in his position, he continues to maintain that no sexual offense occurred. Following his resignation in September 2023, prompted by FIFA's suspension and investigation by Spanish authorities, Rubiales faces the prospect of a two-and-half year sentence should prosecutors secure a conviction. His immediate future hangs in the balance as the trial unfolds, with proceedings scheduled to run until February 19, while three of his associates are also implicated in the case, each denying the allegations leveled against them.
The controversial kiss took place during the medal ceremony on the pitch in Australia and has resulted in a fierce debate surrounding consent, sparking demonstrations and demands for Rubiales' resignation. Denying any criminal conduct, Rubiales described the kiss as “an act of affection,” maintaining that Hermoso had reached out to him in excitement. He recounted his recollection of events, suggesting he had asked for a “little kiss” or something similar, making it clear that he felt she consented in that moment.
Hermoso, however, has countered Rubiales’ claims in court, asserting she had never approved of being kissed and characterized the moment as a stain on what should have been one of her happiest days. In a twist of courtroom drama, an expert in lip reading supported Rubiales’ assertion, stating that he could be seen asking for permission based on video footage, although Ms. Hermoso's reaction remains unrecorded in the same frame.
While Rubiales did admit to having made a "mistake" during the ceremony, lamenting that his behavior was not appropriate for someone in his position, he continues to maintain that no sexual offense occurred. Following his resignation in September 2023, prompted by FIFA's suspension and investigation by Spanish authorities, Rubiales faces the prospect of a two-and-half year sentence should prosecutors secure a conviction. His immediate future hangs in the balance as the trial unfolds, with proceedings scheduled to run until February 19, while three of his associates are also implicated in the case, each denying the allegations leveled against them.
