Luis Rubiales testified in court, stating that Jenni Hermoso consented to the kiss he gave her after Spain's World Cup victory. The former RFEF president is facing charges of sexual assault and coercion, while Hermoso maintains she did not agree to the kiss.
Rubiales Declares Consent in Court Over Hermoso Kiss
Rubiales Declares Consent in Court Over Hermoso Kiss
Former Spanish football federation president insists Jenni Hermoso agreed to the kiss during the World Cup medal ceremony.
Luis Rubiales, the former president of the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), testified in court today claiming that Spanish footballer Jenni Hermoso consented to the kiss he gave her during the medal ceremony after the Women's World Cup final in 2023. He is currently on trial for sexual assault and accused of attempting to coerce Hermoso into publicly declaring that the kiss was consensual.
Rubiales asserted in Spain's National Court in Madrid that he "absolutely" believes Hermoso gave her permission, labeling the kiss as "completely spontaneous." The incident, which occurred after Spain secured their World Cup victory in Australia, sparked widespread protests and demands for Rubiales's resignation, which he denies any wrongdoing.
Recalling the moment, Rubiales stated it was “a tremendous moment for her,” explaining that she showed affection by holding him closely before he asked if he could kiss her. He clarified, saying, "I can't remember exactly" whether he said "can I give you a kiss?" or "a little kiss," although he leaned towards the latter.
An expert in lip reading presented video evidence suggesting that Rubiales did indeed ask Hermoso for a kiss. He acknowledged his mistake for his actions on the podium but denied committing an offense. Rubiales resigned in September 2023 after FIFA suspended him amid investigations by Spanish prosecutors.
In addition to Rubiales, three former colleagues also face trial for colluding in the alleged coercion: Jorge Vilda, the World Cup-winning coach, former marketing head Rubén Rivera, and ex-sporting director Albert Luque. All four defendants maintain their innocence as prosecutors seek a two-and-a-half-year prison sentence for Rubiales. The trial is expected to conclude on February 19.
