Spanish professional footballer Jenni Hermoso has lodged a complaint with the prosecutor’s office, accusing Luis Rubiales, the President of the Spanish Football Federation, of “sexual harassment” following his lip kiss during the Women’s World Cup trophy ceremony.
Hermoso had asserted that the incident was not consensual, while Rubiales contended that the kiss was “mutual” and “consensual.”
Spanish professional footballer Jenni Hermoso has lodged a complaint with the prosecutor’s office, accusing Luis Rubiales, the President of the Spanish Football Federation, of “sexual harassment” following his lip kiss during the Women’s World Cup trophy ceremony.
Rubiales kissing Jenni Hermoso on the lips after Spain became champions had stirred controversy in the country. Spain’s Equality Minister, Irene Montero, had characterized it as a form of sexual violence.
Hermoso had asserted that the incident was not consensual, while Rubiales contended that the kiss was “mutual” and “consensual.”
Hermoso has now clarified that she did not consent to the lip kiss and has taken legal action against Rubiales.
Pressure Persists for Rubiales’ Resignation
Amid an ongoing investigation by FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee, Luis Rubiales, who has been temporarily suspended from his duties, faces sustained political and social pressure in Spain to step down.
The Sports Arbitration Court (TAD), while considering an application from the Sports High Council under the Ministry of Culture and Sports, did not categorize Rubiales’ actions as a severe offense. They deemed them as two serious offenses due to inappropriate behavior, which, from a legal standpoint, allowed Rubiales to remain in his position.
However, the Spanish government has filed another application with the TAD in an attempt to oust Rubiales from his role, citing concerns about potential damage to the country’s image. Despite all the criticism from within the country, Rubiales has not tendered his resignation. As a result of the incident, Jorge Vilda, the Head Coach of the Spanish Women’s National Football Team, was removed from his post, and Montse Tome, who has served as an assistant coach on the national team since 2020, was appointed as his successor.