Testifying in court, Rubiales recounted the moments leading up to the kiss, claiming that Hermoso embraced him and consented to the kiss in a celebratory context. "I've known her for many years and I kissed her because she was a champion," he stated, emphasizing the significance of the moment. He denied any intent of wrongdoing and claimed that the media's fixation on the incident was unwarranted.

Hermoso previously testified that she did not give Rubiales permission for the kiss and expressed how the incident marred one of the happiest days of her life. She recollected being pressured for a public statement minimizing the incident shortly after it occurred. As the trial unfolds, Rubiales admitted to “making a mistake” but maintained that he acted within the bounds of normal celebratory conduct without criminal intent.

In a notable twist, the court was presented with expert testimonies, including a lip reader who claimed Rubiales asked Hermoso if he could kiss her, though her response was inconclusive. The trial is set to continue until February 19, 2024, with prosecutors seeking a 30-month jail term for Rubiales, amidst ongoing discussions regarding workplace conduct, consent, and the broader implications for sexism in sports.