Former FIFA Chief Faces Sexual Assault Trial for Unwanted Kiss on Women’s World Cup Player

The former Spanish football federation chief, Luis Rubiales, will face trial for sexual assault after an unsolicited kiss he planted on Women’s World Cup player Jenni Hermoso during a match against England last year. The incident led to Mr. Rubiales’ resignation, despite his consistent denials of any wrongdoing.

The kiss, which Ms. Hermoso described as unwanted, happened during a trophy presentation ceremony celebrating Spain’s first ever World Cup win on August 20, 2023. The act was caught on camera and broadcast globally, sparking outrage and a national conversation about sexism in Spain.

Mr. Rubiales is not the only one facing charges – the former coach of the women’s national team, Jorge Vilda, the team’s sporting director, Albert Luque, and the federation’s head of marketing, Ruben Rivera are all facing charges of coercion in addition to the sexual assault charge. They are accused of pressuring Ms. Hermoso to claim that the kiss was consensual.

The trial will take place at the Audiencia Nacional in Madrid with a bail set for Mr. Rubiales and his co-accused to cover any potential civil liabilities. If convicted, they could face lengthy prison sentences. The date for the trial has not yet been confirmed