Spanish Football Chief Found Guilty of Sexual Assault After World Cup Kiss
Luis Rubiales, Spain’s former football federation boss, has been convicted of sexual assault for kissing player Jenni Hermoso without her consent following Spain’s win of teh 2023 Women’s World Cup. The Spanish High Court fined Rubiales €10,800 (£8,942).
Rubiales was found not guilty of coercion charges, which alleged he pressured Hermoso to say the kiss was consensual. The court banned Rubiales from being within 200 meters of Hermoso and communicating with her for one year. He has said he will appeal the verdict.
The incident occurred as Spain’s players received their medals in Sydney. Rubiales grabbed Hermoso’s head and kissed her on the lips, an act witnessed by millions of viewers globally.
Hermoso stated in court that the kiss was unwanted and inappropriate,stating,”My boss was kissing me,and this shouldn’t happen in any social or work setting.”
The incident sparked widespread protests and calls for Rubiales’ resignation. He eventually stepped down in September 2023 following FIFA’s suspension and investigations by Spanish prosecutors.
This case fueled the “#MeToo” movement within Spanish women’s football, bringing to light issues of sexism and the need for equality within the sport.
What are the potential long-term consequences of this case for the culture and treatment of women in Spanish football?
Your Questions Answered: Luis Rubiales Case
Here’s a breakdown of the key takeaways from Luis Rubiales’s conviction:
Q: Why was Luis Rubiales found guilty?
**A:** The Spanish High Court convicted Rubiales of sexual assault for kissing player Jenni Hermoso on the lips without her consent during Spain’s 2023 Women’s World Cup victory festivity.
Q: What does this mean for Rubiales?
A:** rubiales was fined €10,800 (£8,942) and prohibited from contacting Hermoso or coming within 200 meters of her for one year. He plans too appeal the verdict.
**Q: why wasn’t Rubiales convicted of coercion?**
**A:** While Hermoso stated the kiss was unwanted, the court ultimately ruled that prosecutors hadn’t proven beyond reasonable doubt that rubiales pressured Hermoso to declare the kiss consensual.
**Q: How did the incident impact Rubiales’ career?**
**A:** Rubiales resigned from his position as Spain’s football federation boss in September 2023. His actions also led to investigations by FIFA, Spain’s prosecutors, and widespread calls for his resignation.
Q: What’s the significance beyond Rubiales?
A:** The case fueled Spain’s “#metoo” movement, highlighting broader issues of sexism and the fight for equality in women’s football.
This case underscores the importance of consent,respect,and accountability,especially within powerful positions. Let’s continue to amplify voices demanding change and justice within sports and beyond.
