Former Spanish Football Chief Luis Rubiales Convicted of Sexual Assault Over Non-Consensual Kiss

Former president of the Spanish Football Federation, Luis Rubiales, has been found guilty of sexually assaulting footballer Jenni Hermoso by forcibly kissing her after Spain's victory in the 2023 Women’s World Cup. The ruling, delivered by Spain’s national court, has sparked fresh discussions about consent, sexism in sports, and the consequences for misconduct at the highest levels of football.

The court ruled that Rubiales kissed Hermoso on the lips without her consent during the World Cup trophy presentation in Sydney, an act that overshadowed Spain’s historic win. Despite his repeated claims that the kiss was mutual, the judge ruled in favor of Hermoso, stating the action was unwanted and constituted sexual assault. However, Rubiales was acquitted of coercion, as there was insufficient evidence that he pressured Hermoso into downplaying the incident.

Court Ruling and Sentencing

Rubiales, who was facing a potential two-and-a-half-year prison sentence, was instead fined over €10,000 ($10,400) and banned from approaching or contacting Hermoso for a year. The judge cited the absence of physical violence or intimidation as a reason for imposing a monetary penalty rather than jail time.

Alongside Rubiales, three former Spanish football officials—ex-women’s team coach Jorge Vilda, sports director Albert Luque, and marketing chief Rubén Rivera—were also cleared of coercion charges related to the incident.

Fallout and Reactions

The case ignited a global debate on sexism in sports and workplace boundaries, with many calling for harsher consequences. While Spain’s Equality Minister Ana Redondo praised the verdict as a "clear message" that non-consensual acts are unacceptable, others, including former equality minister Irene Montero, argued the punishment was too lenient.

Hermoso, who testified that the kiss had deeply affected her life and career, described the moment as a violation that tarnished what should have been a joyous occasion. Her teammates and supporters have echoed her frustration, stating that the ruling, while significant, does not go far enough in holding Rubiales accountable.

Despite the conviction, Rubiales remains defiant, vowing to appeal the ruling. "I will keep fighting," he told reporters, maintaining that the kiss was misinterpreted and insisting on his innocence.

As Spanish football continues to grapple with the controversy, the case has set a precedent in sports, reinforcing that consent and respect must be non-negotiable—both on and off the field.

Featured Image Credit: Instagram / @jennihermoso, Pexels / KATRIN  BOLOVTSOVA