February 3rd 2025.
Luis Rubiales, the former Spanish FA President, is currently facing trial for kissing Jenni Hermoso, the winner of the Women's World Cup, without her consent. This incident, which occurred after Spain's 1-0 victory over England in the 2023 World Cup final in Sydney, has caused a lot of controversy and has become known as "Kissgate."
Jenni Hermoso, a 34-year-old striker, appeared in court today to testify against Rubiales. She described how the unwanted kiss from her former boss had "tainted" one of the happiest days of her life. She felt "abused" and reduced to tears when Rubiales and his team tried to pressure her into downplaying the incident, claiming it was just a "spur-of-the-moment" peck on the lips.
Rubiales, who sat impassively as Hermoso took the stand, is facing charges of sexual assault and coercion. If convicted, he could face up to a year in prison. The public prosecutors also want him to pay Hermoso €100,000 in compensation.
Hermoso shared her experience of the incident in court, recalling how she greeted Spain's Queen Letizia and her daughter before coming face-to-face with Rubiales on the podium. She said that he put his hands on her ears and then kissed her without her consent. She described the kiss as "totally out of context" and something that should not happen in any working environment.
When asked if she felt "abused" as a woman, Hermoso replied, "Yes, I felt very little respect." She also mentioned that Rubiales never asked for her consent before kissing her and that the incident had "stained" one of the happiest days of her life.
After the incident, Hermoso claims she was called off the team coach by a press officer and shown a statement that she was supposed to have written herself. She refused to sign it as she had not written a word of it and did not agree with its contents. She also claimed that Rubiales approached her and asked her to film a video together to counter the social media speculation. She refused, and he mentioned that his daughters were crying on the plane because of the situation.
Hermoso also mentioned feeling pressured by the team's manager and feeling "totally unprotected" by her team. She received death threats and had to leave Madrid with her family because of the unbearable situation. She also stated that the incident has changed her life and that she still feels the effects of it.
The trial is ongoing, and witnesses are expected to testify. Rubiales' daughters are set to give evidence on his behalf, while Alexia Putellas, part of the World Cup-winning team, will testify for Hermoso. The trial is expected to finish on February 19, and the judges' verdict will be delivered in writing at the end of the month. Even if Rubiales is convicted and given a prison sentence, he could delay his incarceration by appealing.
This incident has caused a lot of controversy and has been closely followed by the media. It has also shed light on the issue of consent and the treatment of women in the sports industry. It remains to be seen what the outcome of the trial will be and how it will affect the lives of those involved.
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