Spanish Football Federation President Goes on Trial Over World Cup Kissing Incident
Luis Rubiales, the former president of Spain's football federation, was put on trial in Sydney yesterday, accused of sexual assault for kissing player Jenni Hermoso during the 2023 World Cup in Australia.
Rubiales allegedly kissed Hermoso, a member of the Spanish women's national team, on the lips after their team defeated England to win the tournament. However, Hermoso claimed that the kiss was not consensual, sparking widespread protests and calls for Rubiales's resignation.
The trial, which is scheduled to run until February 19, has focused attention on issues of sexism and consent in sports. Many have criticized Rubiales's behavior, saying it highlights a broader problem of respect and equality between men and women.
Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez added fuel to the fire by labeling Rubiales's action as "proof that there is still a long way to go when it comes to achieving equality and respect between women and men". Rubiales had initially dismissed the allegations as part of a "witch hunt" driven by "fake feminism", but eventually resigned from his position before facing legal charges.
Prosecutors are seeking a one-year prison sentence for sexual assault and an additional year-and-a-half in jail for coercion, accusing Rubiales of pressuring Hermoso into saying that the kiss was consensual. However, Rubiales denies both allegations.
Three other former colleagues of Rubiales - Jorge Vilda, coach of the World Cup-winning side, Rubén Rivera, and Albert Luque, former sporting director - are also on trial for allegedly colluding with him in the alleged coercion.
The controversy has sparked strong emotions among women's football fans in Spain, including Isabel Fuentes, who played for the Spanish women's team from 1971 to the present. Fuentes described the Rubiales incident as "extremely sad", saying it overshadowed what could have been a historic moment of triumph for her generation.
The trial highlights a wider struggle for equality and respect in sports, with many concerned about the international image of Spanish football and the need to address issues of sexism and consent in all contexts.
"It's heartbreaking to see how that incident overshadowed our achievement," Fuentes said. "We worked so hard to get back into the game, and it was a moment we'll never forget."
The case is seen as a significant step towards addressing these concerns and ensuring that women in sports are treated with the respect and dignity they deserve.