The trial unfolds in Madrid as Rubiales confronts accusations of sexual assault amidst a scandal that rocked Spain's football community.
Rubiales Claims Hermoso Consent, Stands Trial for World Cup Incident
Rubiales Claims Hermoso Consent, Stands Trial for World Cup Incident
Luis Rubiales asserts that Jenni Hermoso consented to the kiss during the 2023 Women's World Cup celebration.
In a pivotal moment at the ongoing trial in Madrid, former president of the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), Luis Rubiales, maintained that Spanish footballer Jenni Hermoso consented to the kiss he planted on her lips after Spain's triumph at the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup. Facing charges of sexual assault and coercion, Rubiales testified in Spain's National Court, asserting, "I am absolutely sure" Hermoso approved the kiss, which he described as a "spontaneous act of affection."
The controversial kiss took place during the medal ceremony following Spain's victory in Australia and sparked widespread protests demanding Rubiales's resignation. He has consistently denied any criminal behavior, insisting it was a natural moment of gratitude shared between them.
During his testimony, Rubiales recounted, "This was a tremendous moment for her," elaborating that Hermoso had embraced him tightly around the waist prior to the kiss. When pressed about whether he asked for permission, Rubiales remarked that he couldn't recall his exact words but believed he requested a "little kiss." Notably, Hermoso has previously stated in court that she never granted permission for such an act, labeling the incident as one that "stained one of the happiest days of my life."
Legal experts have weighed in, with one lip reader suggesting Rubiales proposed the kiss before it transpired, based on available evidence. Despite admitting to making an error and acknowledging that his conduct could have been more appropriate, he firmly denied perpetrating any offenses.
In the wake of FIFA's suspension of Rubiales and the initiation of a criminal investigation by Spanish prosecutors, he resigned from his role in September 2023. His trial continues to attract attention, particularly as three of his former colleagues also face charges related to alleged coercion: Jorge Vilda, the coach of the victorious team, along with Rubén Rivera and Albert Luque, both former high-ranking officials in the federation. The prosecution is pursuing a two-and-a-half-year prison sentence for Rubiales, with proceedings expected to run until February 19.
The controversial kiss took place during the medal ceremony following Spain's victory in Australia and sparked widespread protests demanding Rubiales's resignation. He has consistently denied any criminal behavior, insisting it was a natural moment of gratitude shared between them.
During his testimony, Rubiales recounted, "This was a tremendous moment for her," elaborating that Hermoso had embraced him tightly around the waist prior to the kiss. When pressed about whether he asked for permission, Rubiales remarked that he couldn't recall his exact words but believed he requested a "little kiss." Notably, Hermoso has previously stated in court that she never granted permission for such an act, labeling the incident as one that "stained one of the happiest days of my life."
Legal experts have weighed in, with one lip reader suggesting Rubiales proposed the kiss before it transpired, based on available evidence. Despite admitting to making an error and acknowledging that his conduct could have been more appropriate, he firmly denied perpetrating any offenses.
In the wake of FIFA's suspension of Rubiales and the initiation of a criminal investigation by Spanish prosecutors, he resigned from his role in September 2023. His trial continues to attract attention, particularly as three of his former colleagues also face charges related to alleged coercion: Jorge Vilda, the coach of the victorious team, along with Rubén Rivera and Albert Luque, both former high-ranking officials in the federation. The prosecution is pursuing a two-and-a-half-year prison sentence for Rubiales, with proceedings expected to run until February 19.
