The trial of Luis Rubiales, the former president of the Spanish Football Federation, over the controversial kiss he gave star forward Jenni Hermoso is now underway. Rubiales is facing serious charges including sexual assault and coercion for the infamous kiss, which occurred following Spain's victory over England at the 2023 Women's World Cup.
On the opening day of the trial, Hermoso took the stand and described the incident and its aftermath, which has ignited global discussions about sexism and consent within the sport. "I felt it was totally out of place and I then realised my boss was kissing me, and this shouldn’t happen in any social or work setting," Hermoso told the court, emphasizing her lack of consent. She firmly stated, "A kiss on the lips is only to be made when I decide so. At no point did I seek this act, let alone expect it." Her testimony reflects not merely personal hurt but broader outrage against the culture of power imbalance often faced by women.
During the trial held at Madrid's National Court, prosecutors are seeking two and a half years in prison for Rubiales: one year for the actual sexual assault and 18 months for allegedly pressuring Hermoso to downplay the kiss. Prosecutors argue, "The kiss was unexpected and without the consent or acceptance of the player." It’s this legal framing, underscored by recent reforms to Spain's criminal code, which highlight non-consensual acts as punishable offenses.
The scandal exploded shortly after Spain clinched their historic victory, marking the nation’s first Women's World Cup win, but it quickly overshadowed the achievement. The kiss occurred as Hermoso and her teammates celebrated on stage, when Rubiales cupped her face and kissed her without warning—an act seen by millions worldwide. The backlash against Rubiales was immediate and fierce.
Many, including officials and fellow players, condemned his actions as abuse of power. "I think it was a moment tainted one of the happiest days of my life," Hermoso expressed, indicating how this incident clashed starkly with the collective joy of their monumental victory. Equality Minister Ana Redondo also acknowledged Hermoso's bravery, reinforcing the social narrative surrounding the incident.
Rubiales has attempted to defend himself by labeling the kiss as merely "an innocuous peck between friends celebrating,” denying any coercion or malice. Yet his claims have been dismissed by many who argue they signify the normalization of inappropriate behavior from men with authority. Indeed, Hermoso’s testimony starkly counters Ruibalies' characterizations, making it clear: "I never agreed to this." Heartbreaking detail emerged during the trial, including Hermoso's admission of having cried after the kiss, illustrating the emotional toll the incident wreaked on her.
Hermoso isn’t the only one standing up against Rubiales. Several of her teammates are expected to testify against him, including Ballon d'Or winner Alexia Putellas, as the trial broadens its examination of not just individual accountability, but systemic issues within sports organizations. Jorge Vilda, the former women’s national team coach, along with other federation officials, face similar charges for allegedly trying to coerce Hermoso to publicly normalize the kiss.
This trial could become pivotal not just for Hermoso and her career, but also for the future of women’s rights in Spanish football and beyond. The incident galvanized players to protest, leading to several resignations within the federation and prompting systemic changes. For example, the appointment of the first female coach for the women's national team is seen as one of the direct outcomes of this scandal.
By the trial's conclusion on February 19, the ramifications may stretch far beyond Rubiales’ individual fate. The prosecution seeks substantial penalties against all implicated, with the potential for Rubiales, if convicted, to face prison time for his actions. Notably, Spanish law allows for sentences under two years to be served without incarceration if the convicted party has no prior offenses, raising questions about whether justice will be appropriately served.
Hungry for change and justice, Hermoso's case stands as both a cautionary tale and a beacon of hope. Supporters of gender equality firmly await the court's decision, which could resonate with women battling similar injustices worldwide. The proceedings serve as more than just legal discourse; they echo the larger societal shift seeking equity and respecting boundaries—one testimony at a time.