Spain's ex-football chief Luis Rubiales found guilty of kissing player
What's the story
Former Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) chief Luis Rubiales has been convicted of sexually assaulting footballer Jenni Hermoso. The incident took place during the on-field medal ceremony following the Women's World Cup victory in 2023, when Rubiales allegedly kissed Hermoso without her consent. Rubiales was fined €10,000 ($10,455) by the Audiencia Nacional court for his actions.
Legal constraints
Court imposes restrictions on Rubiales
Along with the fine, the court has also placed a number of restrictions on Rubiales. He is not allowed to approach Hermoso within a 200-meter (660-foot) radius and is also barred from communicating with her for one year. Rubiales was also told to pay Hermoso $3,130 (€3,000) in compensation. The judge said this amount was fair because of the "moral damages" that had been done and the fact that thousands of people were in the stadium and watching on TV.
Legal proceedings
Prosecutors' bid for jail time rejected by court
He was, however, acquitted of coercion. Prosecutors had sought a two-and-a-half-year prison sentence for the 47-year-old, but the verdict spared him jail time. Rubiales has always denied any wrongdoing despite Hermoso's claim that the kiss was non-consensual and made her feel "disrespected." He had previously dismissed calls for his resignation as "false feminism" and maintained his innocence in court.
Denial
Rubiales had resigned in September 2023
The incident had sparked a national debate about sexism faced by female athletes, following which Rubiales had resigned in September 2023 amid widespread public outrage. "I think it was a moment that tainted one of the happiest days of my life," Hermoso said. "Until today, it seems that my life has been on standby; honestly, I have not lived freely," the 34-year-old soccer player said.