The upcoming trial of Luis Rubiales, the former president of Spain's football federation, centers on allegations of sexual assault for kissing player Jenni Hermoso and has sparked wider discussions on sexism and consent. Hermoso, who plays in Mexico, is set to appear as a witness during the trial, which runs until February 19th.
The incident occurred when Rubiales kissed Hermoso on the lips as she received her medal after Spain's World Cup victory in 2023, leading to conflicting statements about the consensuality of the act. The controversy prompted demands for Rubiales's resignation, resulting in legal charges against him.
The trial also involves three colleagues accused of involvement in pressuring Hermoso to claim the kiss was consensual. Prosecutors seek a one-year prison term for Rubiales for sexual assault and an eighteen-month sentence for coercion, allegations which Rubiales denies. The other accused parties also deny the charges.
The case has not only impacted the football community but also drawn attention at the political level. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez highlighted the need for gender equality and respect in these incidents, underscoring the societal importance of the trial.
Although some, like Isabel Fuentes, express sadness over how the controversy overshadowed the World Cup triumph, others, such as Belén Peralta and Andrea Rodríguez, reflect on the significant progress made in women's football, emphasizing changing social attitudes towards the sport.