Luis Rubiales Faces Trial for Non-Consensual Kiss After Spain’s World Cup Victory

Spanish footballer Jenni Hermoso testifies that the kiss from the former football federation president tarnished her World Cup celebration.

Luis Rubiales, former president of the Spanish Football Federation, is on trial for sexual assault and coercion following a non-consensual kiss on Jenni Hermoso during Spain's 2023 World Cup celebrations.
Hermoso testified in court that the kiss, which occurred on the victory podium, was disrespectful, unwanted, and ruined what should have been one of the happiest moments of her life.
Prosecutors allege Rubiales and his aides pressured Hermoso to publicly state the kiss was consensual, with Hermoso refusing multiple attempts to issue such statements.
The trial also involves three other former federation officials accused of coercion, with prosecutors seeking prison sentences for all involved if found guilty.
The case has sparked broader discussions in Spain about workplace consent and the treatment of female athletes, with the trial expected to last until mid-February.