Spanish women’s World Cup champion Jenni Hermoso addressed former soccer federation chief Luis Rubiales during his trial, stating that she did not consent to the kiss that ignited a nationwide outcry against sexism in sports.
“I was aware that I was being kissed by my superior, and that shouldn’t occur in any social or professional setting,” she remarked about the incident witnessed live by millions at the 2023 World Cup awards in Australia.
“It felt like a moment that tainted one of the most joyous days of my life,” the 34-year-old forward added as Mr. Rubiales sat close by at Madrid’s High Court, taking notes.
Mr. Rubiales, 47, is facing allegations of sexual assault and of attempting to coerce Ms. Hermoso, along with three accomplices, into stating that the kiss was consensual.
Ms. Hermoso stated that she faced pressure to sign a document absolving Mr. Rubiales of wrongdoing.
When questioned by a prosecutor at Madrid’s High Court if she had consented to the kiss, Ms. Hermoso replied: “Never.”
“I didn’t hear or understand anything,” she continued, recounting the experience.
“The next thing he did was pull me by the ears and kiss me on the mouth.”
Mr. Rubiales has claimed it was consensual and dismissed critics in the wake of the incident. However, Ms. Hermoso expressed that she felt victimized by aggression and experienced pressure to sign a statement clearing him, which she ultimately refused to do.
World Cup victory overshadowed
Mr. Rubiales is scheduled to testify on or after February 12.
The consequent scandal overshadowed Spain’s first women’s World Cup triumph and became a pivotal moment for Spanish female players to confront sexism and strive for equality with their male counterparts.
The trial will feature testimony from several of Ms. Hermoso’s teammates, including Ballon d’Or recipient Alexia Putellas.
Mr. Rubiales has requested that his daughters testify.
He and his co-defendants—former women’s national team coach Jorge Vilda, former Spanish football federation (RFEF) sporting director Albert Luque, and the RFEF’s former head of marketing Ruben Rivera—are set to testify on or after February 12, following the court’s interviews with the remaining witnesses.
“I have faith in justice. I am at peace,” Mr. Vilda stated upon his arrival.
In Spain, individuals given sentences under two years often avoid imprisonment by paying damages if they have no previous convictions.
The scandal prompted a strike from Ms. Hermoso’s teammates and led to significant changes within the federation, including the ousting of both Mr. Rubiales and his close associate, as well as the appointment of a female coach for the women’s team for the first time.
