Luis Rubiales Fined for Controversial Kiss in Women’s World Cup

Luis Rubiales Fined for Non-Consensual Kiss in 2023 Women’s World Cup Controversy

Luis Rubiales, the former president of Spain’s football federation, was found guilty of sexual assault after kissing Jenni Hermoso during the 2023 Women’s World Cup festivities without getting her permission. The High Court of Spain fined Rubiales €10,800 (£8,942) and banned him from communication with Hermoso for a year and from coming within 200 meters of her.

Rubiales was cleared by the court of compulsion, a charge pertaining to claims that he coerced Hermoso into publicly announcing the kiss as consensual. Three of his former coworkers were also exonerated of related charges of coercion: Albert Luque, the former sporting director; Rubén Rivera, the former head of marketing at the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF); and Jorge Vilda, the coach of the World Cup-winning team.

The contentious incident took place while the Spanish national team celebrated their triumph against England in Sydney. The world watched as Rubiales took hold of Hermoso’s head and planted a kiss on her lips. There were widespread protests and demands for Rubiales’ resignation as a result of the incident’s instant indignation. The former football manager, however, stands by his assertion that the kiss was an unplanned display of passion and that he was “absolutely sure” Hermoso had consented.

In contrast, Hermoso firmly denied consenting to the kiss, stating during her testimony that it had “stained one of the happiest days of my life.” She emphasized, “A kiss on the lips is only given when I decide so,” underscoring her lack of approval for the act.

This high-profile case has fueled a broader movement against sexism in Spanish football, reinforcing demands for equal treatment and respect for female athletes. The scandal ultimately led to Rubiales resigning in September 2023 after mounting pressure from FIFA, legal authorities, and the Spanish public.