Luis Rubiales Scandal: Explosive Allegations of Sexual Assault and Coercion Rock Spanish Football Federation

The Spanish FA chief, Luis Rubiales, has been accused of sexual assault and coercion in a complaint filed by Jenni Hermoso with the prosecutor's office.

Rubiales could potentially be charged with criminal offenses for his complaint, alongside the ongoing investigation by Spain's top sports court for "serious misconduct" and a separate inquiry by FIFA. If found guilty of sexual assault, he may be subject to a fine or imprisonment ranging from one to four years, as per the sexual consent law enacted last year.

Prosecutors have accused Rubiales of potentially coercing Hermoso to speak in his defense soon after the scandal of his behavior came to light. They have requested that Rubiales appear in court to provide an initial statement.

If the National Court judge grants permission to proceed with the case, it will initiate an official court inquiry that will culminate in a suggestion to either dismiss the case or proceed to trial.

The football player lodged allegations of sexual assault against Rubiales after he kissed her on the lips subsequent to Spain's 1-0 triumph over England in the recent Women's World Cup final.

Hermoso expressed her refusal to be kissed and explained that she felt "exposed and subjected to an act of aggression". Additionally, she revealed that she and her family were coerced by the federation to publicly endorse Rubiales right after the incident.

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Rubiales faced widespread criticism for kissing Jenni Hermoso after Spain's Women's World Cup win over England

Rubiales, despite facing immense pressure, has staunchly refused to step down, asserting that the kiss shared between them was "spontaneous, mutual, euphoric, and consensual." In contrast, Hermoso has garnered widespread support from the Spanish government, players' unions, players, and numerous citizens, yet Rubiales remains adamant in his refusal to resign.

Rubiales faced suspension from FIFA on August 27 following his defiant address to the federation's general assembly. In his speech, he accused "false feminists" of conducting a "witch hunt" against him. In response, leaders of the regional FAs called for Rubiales' resignation. Pedro Rocha, the interim president of the federation, recently expressed remorse for the significant harm caused by his predecessor's conduct and vowed to overhaul the organization.

Vilda: Sacking is 'unfair'

"I feel incredibly unjustly dismissed, especially considering that I had just become the world champion a mere 10 days ago," Vilda expressed in an interview with Cadena SER.

"In terms of sports, I am prepared to accept all forms of criticism. However, on a personal level, I feel that it has been unjust.

This year, in particular, has been significant. Although no direct statements have been made, indirect comments have been made that do not resonate with me. False claims have also been uttered."

He commented on his termination, stating, "My meeting with Pedro Rocha and the vice president of equality was concise. I was informed that there have been 'structural changes'.

"Considering all my accomplishments and the effort I put in, I have a clear conscience. The decision to let me go is perplexing to me. I never believed I warranted such an action."

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All 11 of Vilda's backroom colleagues had already resigned in protest over the ongoing crisis surrounding Rubiales.