MADRID, Spain – Spanish football sensation Jenni Hermoso, a World Cup winner, appeared before Judge Francisco de Jorge at the Audiencia Nacional, Spain’s main criminal court, to provide her testimony regarding the allegations of sexual assault involving former Spanish football chief Luis Rubiales.
The case revolves around a controversial kiss that took place during the Women’s World Cup trophy ceremony.
The 33-year-old Hermoso, dressed in a long grey overcoat, arrived at the courthouse and greeted the press with a smile but refrained from making any comments before heading inside to testify.
The hearing comes after Hermoso filed a lawsuit against Rubiales in September, asserting that the kiss was non-consensual.
Rubiales, who was the RFEF football federation chief at the time of the incident, claims the kiss was “a consensual peck.”
However, Hermoso has vehemently disputed this characterization.
The former football chief resigned from his position following the controversy.
The kiss, which occurred on August 20 after Spain’s Women’s World Cup victory, prompted widespread condemnation and resulted in FIFA suspending Rubiales.
He now faces allegations of sexual assault and coercion.
According to Spanish law, a non-consensual kiss can be classified as sexual assault, falling under the criminal category of sexual violence.
The penalties for such an offense range from fines to up to four years in prison.
A restraining order is currently in place, prohibiting Rubiales from approaching within 200 meters of Hermoso.
Rubiales faces additional accusations of “coercion” for allegedly pressuring Hermoso to justify his actions, which were broadcast worldwide.
The investigation has also included questioning other individuals involved, such as former women’s coach Jorge Vilda, men’s team director Albert Luque, and RFEF marketing chief Ruben Rivera.
Two-time Ballon d’Or winner Alexia Putellas, along with two other Spanish teammates, have previously testified regarding the pressure Hermoso experienced.
The case has brought attention to issues of consent and power dynamics within the realm of football.
The outcome of the trial will be closely watched as it carries implications for addressing sexual assault within the sport.
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