Luis Rubiales, the former president of the Spanish Football Federation, is set to make a courtroom appearance in Madrid this Friday in response to a legal complaint filed by Spain’s forward, Jenni Hermoso. The controversy stems from Rubiales kissing Hermoso on the lips following Spain’s Women’s World Cup final victory on August 20th.
Hermoso’s complaint alleges sexual assault and coercion, leading to Rubiales’ summons by a high court judge. The hearing is scheduled for 12:00 local time (11:00 BST).
The crux of this legal battle lies in the interpretation of the kiss itself. Hermoso, 33, asserts that the kiss was not consensual, whereas Rubiales insists it was a “mutual” and “consensual” expression of celebration.
The repercussions of this incident have been swift and far-reaching. Rubiales resigned as the president of the Spanish FA in response to the controversy, and he has also stepped down from his position as vice-president of Uefa’s executive committee.
Initially, Hermoso’s complaint centered on sexual assault, but prosecutor Marta Durantez Gil added a charge of coercion after the forward revealed that some of her relatives had been pressured by Rubiales and his “professional entourage” to support his version of events.
On Monday, Judge Francisco de Jorge of the National Court accepted the complaint and appointed a magistrate to investigate the case. After a thorough investigation, the magistrate will determine whether the case should proceed to trial or be dismissed.
To gather evidence, Judge Jorge has requested video footage of the incident from Spain’s public broadcaster RTVE, as well as videos of the team’s celebrations published online by Spanish newspapers El Pais, AS, and La Vanguardia.
The ongoing controversy has cast a shadow over Spain’s Women’s World Cup victory, and Rubiales resisted calls for his resignation before ultimately stepping down on Sunday.
Under Spanish law, the charge of sexual assault carries a range of penalties, including fines and up to four years in prison. In an open letter on Sunday, Rubiales expressed his commitment to seeking the truth and ensuring that it prevails.
Hermoso, a player for Pachuca, released a lengthy statement on social media on August 25th, asserting that the kiss was not consensual. She emphasized the importance of reporting such incidents and the need for respect in all professional, sports, and social settings.
The outcome of this legal battle will undoubtedly have a significant impact on the sports world, and it remains to be seen how the court will interpret the events surrounding that fateful kiss.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Controversial Kiss
What is the controversy surrounding Luis Rubiales and Jenni Hermoso’s kiss?
The controversy revolves around a kiss that took place between Luis Rubiales, the former president of the Spanish Football Federation, and Spain’s forward, Jenni Hermoso, following Spain’s Women’s World Cup final win. Hermoso alleges that the kiss was not consensual, while Rubiales claims it was mutual.
Why is Luis Rubiales facing legal action?
Luis Rubiales is facing legal action because Jenni Hermoso filed a legal complaint against him. She has accused him of sexual assault and coercion in connection with the kiss. As a result, Rubiales has been summoned to appear in court to respond to these allegations.
What are the potential consequences for Luis Rubiales?
Under Spanish law, the charge of sexual assault can carry penalties ranging from fines to up to four years in prison. The outcome of the legal proceedings will determine the consequences for Rubiales.
Why did Luis Rubiales resign as the president of the Spanish FA?
Luis Rubiales resigned as the president of the Spanish Football Federation due to the controversy surrounding the kiss with Jenni Hermoso. The scandal had a significant impact on his position and led to his decision to step down.
How is the legal case progressing?
After the complaint was accepted by Judge Francisco de Jorge of the National Court, a magistrate was assigned to investigate the case. The magistrate will conduct a thorough investigation and then decide whether the case should proceed to trial or be dismissed.
What evidence is being considered in the case?
The court is considering video footage of the incident, obtained from Spain’s public broadcaster RTVE, as well as videos of the team’s celebrations published by Spanish newspapers El Pais, AS, and La Vanguardia as evidence in the case.
What is Jenni Hermoso’s stance on the incident?
Jenni Hermoso has publicly stated that the kiss was not consensual and has emphasized the importance of reporting such incidents and the need for respect in all professional, sports, and social settings.
How has this controversy affected Spanish football?
The controversy has overshadowed Spain’s Women’s World Cup victory and has had a significant impact on Spanish football. It has generated extensive media attention and calls for Rubiales’ resignation. The outcome of the legal battle will continue to be closely watched by sports enthusiasts and the public.
More about Controversial Kiss
- Former Spanish FA president Luis Rubiales – BBC Sport
- Jenni Hermoso kiss controversy – The Guardian
- Luis Rubiales resigns as Spanish FA president – Reuters
- Spain Women’s World Cup victory – FIFA Women’s World Cup
- Spanish law on sexual assault – Criminal Lawyers Australia
