Testimonies Unfold in Rubiales Trial as Teammates of Jenni Hermoso Share Emotional Experiences

The trial of Luis Rubiales, accused of sexually assaulting Jenni Hermoso, continues in Madrid as her teammates testify about her emotional state following the incident. They describe her feelings of overwhelm and sadness, underscoring the impact of the event on her well-being.

In a significant courtroom hearing in Madrid, the ongoing trial of former Spanish football chief Luis Rubiales has seen poignant testimonies from teammates of footballer Jenni Hermoso. The players, including Irene Paredes, Laia Codina, and Alexia Putellas, spoke candidly about Hermoso’s emotional state following an incident in which Rubiales allegedly kissed her without consent during the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup medal ceremony.

Putellas shared that Hermoso felt "overwhelmed" after the unexpected kiss, noting that it had deeply affected her experience, leading to tears during the return flight to Spain. Codina detailed how Hermoso appeared "sad" and unable to enjoy what should have been one of her proudest moments, underscoring the emotional aftershocks of the incident.

Rubiales’s actions during the medal ceremony sparked widespread outrage and calls for his resignation. Despite the testimonies and Hermoso's allegations stating she felt "disrespected," Rubiales maintains his innocence, claiming the kiss was consensual. As part of the court's proceedings, Paredes recounted a moment during their flight home when she advised her teammates to treat the incident with the seriousness it warranted.

The controversial kiss has led to a broader narrative questioning consent and respect within sports, with Rubiales facing potential prison time—one year for sexual assault and an additional year-and-a-half for coercion, as he allegedly pressured Hermoso to downplay the event. The trial continues, with Rubiales and several associates facing serious charges related to the incidents following the World Cup celebrations.