Ex-Spain football boss Luis Rubiales to stand trial for sexual assault after World Cup kiss
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The former head of the Spanish football federation, Luis Rubiales, is set to stand trial for sexual assault after kissing player Jenni Hermoso following Spain’s victory in the women’s World Cup final last year. The incident occurred after Spain’s 1-0 win over England on August 20, 2023, where Rubiales kissed Hermoso on the lips without her consent. This non-consensual kiss has been classified as sexual assault under international law.
The controversial incident, which was witnessed by audiences around the world, sparked a conversation about sexism in Spain. Rubiales, who was forced to resign from his position following the incident, has denied any wrongdoing. However, star forward Hermoso has been vocal about not consenting to the kiss, leading to Rubiales facing one count of sexual assault. If convicted, he could face up to one year in jail.
In addition to the charge of sexual assault, Rubiales also faces a charge of coercion along with former women’s national team coach Jorge Vilda, the team’s current sporting director Albert Luque, and the federation’s head of marketing Ruben Rivera. The four individuals are accused of pressuring Hermoso into stating that the kiss was consensual. If found guilty, they could each face up to 18 months in jail.
The trial is scheduled to take place at the Audiencia Nacional, a high court in Madrid, although a specific date has yet to be set. The court has set bail at €65,000 on Rubiales’ sexual assault charge, with an additional €65,000 to be posted jointly between Rubiales, Vilda, Luque, and Rivera on the charges of coercion.
The case has garnered significant attention both within Spain and internationally, highlighting the importance of consent and respect in all interactions. The outcome of the trial will not only impact the individuals involved but also serve as a reflection of societal attitudes towards sexual assault and harassment.
It is crucial to recognize and address instances of non-consensual behavior, especially in high-profile settings like sports, where power dynamics can exacerbate issues of misconduct. By holding individuals accountable for their actions and ensuring that justice is served, we can work towards creating a safer and more inclusive environment for all individuals, regardless of their gender or background.
As the trial unfolds, it will be important to closely monitor the proceedings and examine the evidence presented to determine the appropriate course of action. The outcome of this case will undoubtedly have far-reaching implications for the sports community and beyond, reinforcing the importance of upholding ethical standards and respecting the autonomy of all individuals.
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Luis Rubiales
