Madrid: Spain’s former football federation head, Luis Rubiales, was found guilty of sexual assault for kissing Jenni Hermoso without consent.
He must pay a €10,800 (£8,942) fine, Spain’s High Court ruled.
However, he was acquitted of coercion allegations linked to pressuring Hermoso into saying the kiss was consensual.
The incident occurred as Spain’s team received medals after winning the 2023 Women’s World Cup in Sydney.
Rubiales grabbed Hermoso’s head and kissed her on the lips, sparking widespread backlash.
Legal Consequences
The court has banned Rubiales from being within 200 meters of Hermoso for a year.
He is also prohibited from communicating with her during that period.
Despite the ruling, Rubiales has stated that he plans to appeal against the verdict.
His actions led to massive protests and calls for his resignation from Spanish football.
The case became a major controversy in Spain, drawing global attention.
Other Accused
Three former colleagues of Rubiales were also on trial for alleged coercion.
Jorge Vilda, Spain’s World Cup-winning coach, was among them.
Rubén Rivera, the former head of marketing at RFEF, faced similar charges.
Albert Luque, ex-sporting director, was also accused of being involved.
All three were cleared of coercion charges by the court.
Rubiales’ Defense
Rubiales had denied wrongdoing and insisted Hermoso had consented to the kiss.
He told the court he was “absolutely sure” she agreed.
Describing the act, he called it an “act of affection” and “completely spontaneous.”
However, Hermoso maintained that she never gave permission for the kiss.
She testified that the moment “stained one of the happiest days” of her life.
Hermoso’s Testimony
Hermoso gave her testimony in court earlier this month.
She told the Madrid court, “My boss was kissing me, and this shouldn’t happen.”
She insisted that such behavior is inappropriate in any professional or social setting.
“A kiss on the lips is only given when I decide so,” she told the court.
Her statements strongly countered Rubiales’ claims of mutual agreement.
Global Outrage
The incident was seen live by millions on television and in the stadium.
It triggered significant backlash and protests from players and activists.
The controversy led to a broader movement for gender equality in Spanish football.
Many female players demanded better treatment and an end to sexism in the sport.
This movement was compared to the global “Me Too” campaign against sexual misconduct.
FIFA’s Reaction
Following the incident, FIFA took immediate action against Rubiales.
The governing body suspended him while investigations were underway.
Spanish prosecutors then launched a formal investigation into his actions.
Rubiales initially resisted calls to step down from his position.
However, growing pressure forced him to resign in September 2023.
Ongoing Impact
The case has sparked discussions about workplace ethics in sports.
Many argue that stricter measures should be in place to protect athletes.
Spanish football authorities are under pressure to implement reforms.
The ruling is seen as a step toward accountability in sports leadership.
Rubiales’ appeal could extend the legal battle further.
