Spanish Court Convicts Luis Rubiales of Sexual Assault Over Non-Consensual World Cup Kiss

The former Spanish football chief was fined and barred from contacting Jenni Hermoso after the 2023 incident that highlighted sexism in sports.

Luis Rubiales was found guilty of sexually assaulting footballer Jenni Hermoso by forcibly kissing her during the 2023 Women’s World Cup medal ceremony.
A Spanish court fined Rubiales €10,800 and banned him from contacting Hermoso or approaching within 200 meters of her for one year.
Rubiales was acquitted of coercion charges tied to allegations that he pressured Hermoso to downplay the incident after it occurred.
The case ignited global discussions about sexism and macho culture in sports, with Hermoso testifying that the kiss disrespected her and tarnished a major career milestone.
Rubiales resigned as head of the Spanish Football Federation in September 2023 following widespread backlash and a FIFA suspension.