Spain’s Football Chief Found Guilty of Forced Kiss on Women’s World Cup Winner
Verdict and Appeal
Jenni Hermoso, the Spanish women’s national team player, has announced her intention to appeal the verdict in the case against former Spain football chief Luis Rubiales, who was fined for a forced kiss on the Women’s World Cup-winning player. According to her lawyer, Angel Chavarria, "It is her intention" to appeal the verdict.
The Incident
The scandal that rocked Spanish football occurred during the 2023 Women’s World Cup medal ceremony in Sydney, where Rubiales, then the president of the Spanish football federation, clasped Hermoso’s head and kissed her on the lips before letting her go with two slaps on the back. The incident was broadcast live around the world, sparking a global outcry.
Trial and Verdict
In a case that sought a prison term of two-and-a-half years for Rubiales, a judge at Spain’s high court found him guilty of sexual assault over the kiss and fined him €10,800, but spared him a prison sentence. Rubiales was acquitted of coercion, alleged to have pressured Hermoso into making a public statement that the kiss was consensual.
Judge’s Ruling
The judge wrote in his ruling that kissing a woman on the mouth "is not the normal way of greeting people with whom one has no sentimental relationship," saying Rubiales had violated Hermoso’s "sexual freedom" without her consent.
Reactions
Spanish justice minister Felix Bolanos hailed Hermoso’s "courage" after the verdict, stating, "We must all be grateful to Jenni, because she took an initiative, in a very difficult moment, to defend the rights and freedom of women and to emphasize that this society, our Spanish society, no longer admits any type of abuse, no longer admits any type of sexual assault." He added, "One thing is clear, a non-consensual kiss is sexual assault, period."
Conclusion
The case has brought attention to the prevalence of macho culture and sexism in sport, and the importance of consent and respect in all interactions. The outcome of the appeal is yet to be determined, but the verdict serves as a reminder of the need for accountability and zero tolerance for sexual assault.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who was accused of forced kiss?
Luis Rubiales, the former president of the Spanish football federation - Who was the victim of the forced kiss?
Jenni Hermoso, a Spanish women’s national team player - What was the verdict?
Rubiales was found guilty of sexual assault and fined €10,800, but was acquitted of coercion - Will Jenni Hermoso appeal the verdict?
Yes, according to her lawyer, Angel Chavarria, she intends to appeal the verdict.