Spanish football star Jenni Hermoso has testified in court against former football federation chief Luis Rubiales, stating that his unsolicited kiss after Spain’s Women’s World Cup victory left her feeling “disrespected” and triggered a wave of backlash against gender misconduct in sports. Hermoso, who has consistently maintained that she did not consent to the kiss, recounted the emotional toll it has taken on her, including receiving threats and feeling unsafe in public.
The incident occurred in August 2023 at the Sydney Olympic Stadium, where Rubiales lifted Hermoso off her feet, grabbed her head, and appeared to kiss her on the lips in front of millions of spectators worldwide. As the controversy erupted, Rubiales initially dismissed the backlash but later admitted he was “wrong,” though he insisted the kiss was done “without bad faith.” In September, Hermoso filed a criminal complaint, leading to Rubiales’ suspension by FIFA and his eventual resignation.
Beyond the kiss, Rubiales is also facing accusations of coercing Hermoso into endorsing a statement absolving him of wrongdoing, with the alleged involvement of three other men. FIFA’s investigation further revealed claims that he forcefully kissed England’s Lucy Bronze and inappropriately touched other players. The case has intensified discussions about power dynamics in women’s football and male dominance in sports administration.
At the ongoing trial, Hermoso spoke about the personal and professional consequences of the ordeal, revealing that she had to leave Madrid with her family due to fear for their safety. “I received threats, death threats,” she testified, describing how the incident disrupted her life. Her legal team is seeking a two-and-a-half-year prison sentence for Rubiales, along with a €50,000 compensation payment and a ban from holding any sports-related positions.
Rubiales, however, denies all charges, insisting that the kiss was consensual and happened in a “moment of jubilation.” His defense continues to argue that the controversy has been exaggerated, but the case remains a watershed moment for accountability in sports, with many viewing it as a defining step in addressing misconduct and gender inequality within football.
