Luis Rubiales, the former head of the Spanish football federation, has been charged with coercion and sexual assault following an unsolicited kiss to Women’s World Cup player, Jenni Hermoso. The incident occurred during a game against England last year and garnered global attention. Despite being forced to resign, Mr. Rubiales denies any wrongdoing and maintains his innocence.
During the trophy presentation ceremony, Mr. Rubiales kissed Ms. Hermoso without her consent, sparking a nationwide debate on sexism in Spain. The incident overshadowed a significant moment for Spain’s women’s team, who were celebrating their first World Cup win.
The former official claims the kiss was consensual and accuses his detractors of attempting to socially assassinate him. However, Ms. Hermoso and her teammates maintain that the kiss was unwanted and degrading. As a result of this scandal, four men associated with the national team have been charged with coercion in addition to the sexual assault charge. If convicted, each of them could face up to 18 months in jail.
The trial is set to take place at the Audiencia Nacional in Madrid, with the date yet to be confirmed. The court has imposed a bail of €65,000 for Mr. Rubiales’ sexual assault charge and a joint bail of €65,000 for the coercion charges against all four men
