Luis Rubiales Ordered to Pay Fine for Non-consensual Kiss on Player

Luis Rubiales, the ousted head of Spain's football federation, has been penalized for kissing player Jenni Hermoso without consent, reflecting growing efforts to address sexual misconduct in sports.

Luis Rubiales, the former president of the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), has been sentenced to pay a fine of €10,800 (£8,942) after the High Court of Spain found him guilty of sexual assault for kissing football star Jenni Hermoso without her consent. The incident occurred during the medal ceremony of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, where Rubiales, celebrating Spain’s victory over England, pulled Hermoso towards him and kissed her on the lips.

Despite his conviction, Rubiales was acquitted of coercion charges, which alleged he attempted to pressure Hermoso into publicly claiming the kiss was consensual. The court also imposed a one-year ban on Rubiales from approaching Hermoso within 200 meters or communicating with her.

Rubiales, who claims the kiss was an affectionate act, testified that he believed Hermoso had consented to the kiss. However, Hermoso countered in her testimony that the unsolicited kiss left a stain on what should have been an exhilarating moment, labeling it inappropriate for a workplace or social setting. "A kiss on the lips is only given when I decide so," she asserted, emphasizing her lack of consent.

While Rubiales attempted to defend his actions, the widespread outcry following the incident fueled a surge in activism within the Spanish women's football community, mirroring the "Me Too" movement. Many players began advocating for equality and an end to sexism in the sport. After facing immense pressure, Rubiales resigned in September 2023, shortly after being suspended by FIFA and with the Spanish judicial system initiating an investigation.

Three others who cooperated in alleged coercion - including national team coach Jorge Vilda - were exonerated of any wrongdoing in this case.