Former chief of the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), Luis Rubiales, has faced significant consequences for kissing Jennifer Hermoso, a Women’s World Cup winner, during the medal ceremony after Spain’s 2023 victory.
The Spanish High Court found him guilty of sexual assault. He was fined $11,270 (€10,800), to be paid in daily installments over 18 months. Although prosecutors had sought a prison sentence of two and a half years, Rubiales avoided jail time altogether.
The judge described the kiss as a “sporadic act,” noting it was wrong yet considered it less severe under Spanish law, as there was no intimidation involved.
In addition to the fine, Rubiales must pay Hermoso $3,130 (€3,000) for the emotional harm caused by his actions, which were publicly witnessed both in the stadium and on television.
The ruling also restricts Rubiales from coming within about 656 feet of Hermoso or communicating with her for one year.
Three others, including former women’s national team coach Jorge Vilda, were also cleared of charges. They had been accused of pressuring Hermoso to say she consented to the kiss.
This incident has had a lasting impact on Hermoso. She expressed that the kiss, from her superior, was out of place and should never occur in any environment.
Reflecting on the moment, she stated, “It tainted one of the happiest days of my life.” Since then, she feels her life has been on hold, and she has struggled to live freely.
During a court hearing, Rubiales claimed he had asked for Hermoso’s permission to kiss her, which she firmly denied.
The fallout from this event prompted widespread protests in Spain and sparked important conversations about misogyny, not just in sports but in Spanish society as a whole.
