Unwanted Kiss Scandal: The Controversy Surrounding Spain's Former Soccer Boss
The scandal involving Spain's former soccer boss, Luis Rubiales, and star forward Jennifer Hermoso has sparked international outrage and legal proceedings. Here's a detailed look at the controversial incident and its aftermath.
The Unwanted Kiss Incident
In a shocking turn of events, Spain's former soccer boss, Luis Rubiales, has found himself at the center of a controversy involving an unwanted kiss towards star forward Jennifer Hermoso. The incident took place after the national team's 2023 Women's World Cup victory and has since sparked legal proceedings and public outcry.
Spain's player Jennifer Hermoso leaves after testifying at the Audiencia Nacional court in Madrid on January 2, 2024.
The National Court press office in Madrid has announced that a judge has proposed that Rubiales should stand trial for the alleged non-consensual kiss. The judge's ruling, which has been viewed by media outlets, indicated the existence of solid indications that the kiss was not consensual and was initiated unilaterally by Rubiales.
The Global Outcry and Resignation
The unwanted kiss incident, which was televised globally as Spain's players lined up to receive their medals, immediately sparked outrage in Spain and international circles over the issue of consent. Rubiales, who was then the president of the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), faced intense scrutiny and pressure in the aftermath of the incident.
Despite describing the kiss as 'mutual,' Rubiales' claim was contradicted by Hermoso, who firmly denied consenting to the kiss and expressed that she was not respected. The controversy ultimately led to Rubiales' resignation as RFEF president, following weeks of public pressure and condemnation.
Legal Proceedings and Trial Prospects
The judge's proposal for Rubiales to stand trial, along with three other men, including the former women's team coach and two other federation officials, has raised the possibility of legal proceedings over the alleged incident. The proposal also includes a separate charge of alleged pressure on Hermoso to publicly affirm that the kiss had been consensual.
State prosecutors and Hermoso's lawyer have been given 10 days to formally request that the case proceed to trial, specifying the charges, or to have it shelved. Meanwhile, defense lawyers for Rubiales and the other accused men have three days to attempt to halt a potential trial by appealing to a different section of the court.
