The trial against Luis Rubiales, former president of the Spanish Football Federation and accused of sexual assault for kissing footballer Jenni Hermoso after the 2023 Women's World Cup, began this Monday. The kiss, according to Hermoso, was without her consent and generated outrage in society and the football community.
Rubiales, in addition to the sexual assault charge, was involved in other controversies during his presidency. He changed the format of the Supercopa de España, moving it to Saudi Arabia in an agreement investigated for possible irregular commissions. He was sanctioned by FIFA and declared unfit for sports positions for three years.
Among the expected witnesses in the trial are the head coach of the Spanish men's national team, Luis de la Fuente, and teammates of Hermoso, such as Alexia Putellas. It is alleged that Rubiales tried to pressure Hermoso to publicly support him, which she rejected.
Rubiales could face a fine or imprisonment from one to four years if found guilty of sexual assault and coercion. A new law in Spain equates harassment and sexual assault, punishing any act of non-consensual sexual violence. A two-and-a-half-year sentence is sought for Rubiales and a compensation of 50,000 euros, as well as a ban on performing sports functions.
In addition to Rubiales, other individuals involved in the case are former coach Jorge Vilda, former sports director Albert Luque, and former marketing chief Rubén Rivera, who also face accusations of pressuring Hermoso to publicly support him. The trial is expected to last at least 10 days, with the defendants testifying at the end of next week.
