Luis Rubiales, the former head of the Spanish football federation, is set to stand trial for allegedly sexually assaulting footballer Jenni Hermoso during Spain’s Women’s World Cup victory celebration.
The incident, which took place nine months ago, involved Rubiales kissing Hermoso on the lips during the televised ceremony, a move she did not consent to.
Rubiales faces charges of sexual assault and coercion. The second charge comes from allegations that he pressured Hermoso to declare the kiss consensual.
Spanish prosecutors are demanding a two-and-a-half-year prison sentence.
The judge in the preliminary investigation said that while the intent behind Rubiales’s actions – whether erotic or spurred by the excitement of the win – would be evaluated, the non-consensual nature of the act was clear.
The case has sparked a backlash, and has become a topic for discussions on sexism within Spanish football, symbolised by the rallying cry “se acabó” (“it’s over”).
Three others, including former women’s team coach Jorge Vilda, will face trial on charges of trying to force Hermoso into supporting Rubiales’s version of events. If convicted, they risk up to one-and-a-half years in prison.
Rubiales has also been implicated in a separate corruption case related to the Spanish Super Cup’s relocation to Saudi Arabia, and he has denied all allegations.
Compiled by staff writer
Pictured above: Luis Rubiales.
Image source: File
