In a startling turn of events, Spanish football star Jenni Hermoso has filed a criminal complaint against Luis Rubiales, the chief of the Spanish Football Federation. The complaint stems from a forced kiss incident that occurred following Spain’s triumph in the Women’s World Cup. The national prosecutor’s office announced this development on a recent Wednesday.
Jenni Hermoso provided her testimony regarding the incident on Tuesday, and the complaint is now in the process of being expedited as swiftly as possible, according to the prosecutor’s office.
This legal action opens the door for Rubiales to potentially face criminal charges, in addition to the ongoing inquiry by Spain’s top sports court for what has been labeled as “serious misconduct.” Furthermore, the incident is also under investigation by FIFA, the world soccer governing body, which has provisionally suspended Rubiales from his office.
Neither representatives for Jenni Hermoso nor Luis Rubiales were immediately available for comment on this matter.
The incident in question unfolded during the medal-giving ceremony that followed Spain’s 1-0 victory over England in the Women’s World Cup final, which took place on August 20. During this ceremony, Luis Rubiales grabbed Jenni Hermoso’s head and kissed her on the lips, sparking immediate controversy.
Last month, the prosecutor for Spain’s High Court had already hinted at the possibility that Rubiales could face a sexual assault charge, a grave offense that carries a prison term ranging from one to four years. This potential charge would become actionable if Hermoso chose to file a formal complaint.
It is noteworthy that the High Court holds jurisdiction over this case because the incident occurred abroad, specifically in Sydney, Australia.
Jenni Hermoso has consistently expressed her disapproval of the unwanted advance, stating that she did not consent to the kiss and felt “vulnerable and a victim of aggression.” In stark contrast, Rubiales has defended his actions, describing the kiss as “spontaneous, mutual, euphoric, and consensual,” as reported by Reuters.
This incident involving Luis Rubiales has ignited outrage not only in Spain but also internationally. It is essential to highlight that this is not the only controversial action attributed to Rubiales during the Women’s World Cup final. He also drew criticism for an inappropriate gesture, grabbing his crotch while standing close to Spain’s Queen Letizia and her 16-year-old daughter during the same match.
As the legal proceedings continue to unfold, the football world watches closely, awaiting the resolution of this high-profile case that has thrust issues of consent and misconduct onto the global stage.
