The conviction issued against Luis Rubiales by the National Court has caused great indignation in Spanish society, transcending beyond the football sphere and triggering one of the most embarrassing scandals in the history of the country's football.
The accusation presented by the public prosecutor involves Rubiales' behavior described as "surprising and without consent or acceptance" towards Jenni Hermoso during the medal ceremony of the World Cup. He is accused of having held the footballer's head with both hands and having kissed her on the lips, subsequently pressuring her constantly to justify and approve the kiss he gave "against her will".
In addition to this incident, Rubiales was also being investigated for business corruption and unfair administration related to alleged irregularities in the Federation’s contracts during his management.
The Spanish justice system sentenced Rubiales to pay a fine of 10,800 euros for a sexual assault crime after the kiss to Jenni Hermoso in 2023, following the victory in the Football World Cup. However, he was acquitted of the coercion charge for pressuring the player to downplay the importance of the incident.
The ruling of the National Court also prohibited Rubiales from approaching Hermoso within a radius of 200 meters and from communicating with her for a year. During the trial, Hermoso stated that she had not consented to the kiss and reported being pressured to minimize its significance, feeling violated and disrespected.
The Prosecutor's Office had requested two years in prison for Rubiales, as well as lesser sentences for others involved in the case. The representative of the Public Ministry reiterated that Rubiales did not seek permission before kissing Hermoso, despite the defendant's claim.
In summary, the sentenced issued has generated intense debate in the country, highlighting the importance of respecting the will and dignity of individuals, especially in public and media events.