Rubiales Claims Hermoso Consent at Trial Over Controversial World Cup Kiss

Luis Rubiales, on trial for sexual assault related to his kiss with Spanish footballer Jenni Hermoso at the Women's World Cup, insists it was consensual, a claim Hermoso refutes.

Luis Rubiales, the former president of the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), has made headlines as he faces trial, asserting that Spanish football star Jenni Hermoso consented to the kiss he planted on her after Spain's momentous Women’s World Cup victory in 2023. During a session at Spain's National Court in Madrid, Rubiales firmly claimed he was “absolutely sure” that Hermoso granted her permission for the kiss, which some view as pivotal in the unfolding controversy.

The incident occurred during the medal ceremony following Spain's triumph in Australia, which ignited widespread protests and calls for Rubiales's resignation. He denies allegations of sexual assault and coercion related to Hermoso's public remarks about the kiss, describing the act as a mere “spontaneous” gesture of affection amidst the celebratory atmosphere.

"At that moment, we were thanking each other, and she pressed me very hard around the waist," Rubiales explained in court. "I asked her whether I could give her a kiss, and she said yes." However, he also admitted under questioning that he couldn’t recall the exact phrasing he used when inquiring about the kiss.

Contrasting Rubiales’ account, Hermoso has previously testified that she did not give consent and referred to the episode as something that marred what should have been one of her happiest moments. An expert in lip reading presented evidence in court indicating that Rubiales indeed asked Hermoso for permission before the kiss.

While acknowledging that he “made a mistake” and that his behavior was “not appropriate,” Rubiales staunchly contested that any criminal action was taken on his part. He stated he should have insisted on maintaining a more formal demeanor during the celebrations.

Following the incident, Rubiales resigned in September 2023 amidst FIFA’s suspension and an ensuing investigation by Spanish authorities. The trial, which also involves three of Rubiales's former colleagues accused of colluding in the alleged coercion, has attracted significant media scrutiny, with prosecution seeking a two-and-a-half-year jail term for Rubiales. The ongoing proceedings are set to continue until February 19, 2024.