The kiss, which occurred during a medal ceremony at the Women's World Cup last August, was immediately and widely criticized, but Rubiales initially refused to leave her job as director.
Thursday 25 January 2024 14:25, UK
Spain's former soccer federation president should stand trial for kissing a female player without her consent during the Women's World Cup final, a judge has said.
Luis Rubiales He kissed Jenni Hermoso on the lips as the team received their winners' medals after Spain's victory over England in Sydney last August.
The incident shocked the sporting world, with High Court Judge Francisco de Jorge saying in a new statement that, contrary to Rubiales' statement, an investigation found that the kiss was “not consensual, unilateral and surprising.” It turned out that it was an effort.”
Until now, this case has been handled by a preliminary judge. Prosecutors and lawyers can continue to make arguments, after which the court will decide whether and when to hold a trial.
The judge also wants the women's team's former coach, Jorge Virda, tried. Albert Luque, men's team coach. Ruben Rivera, the federation's marketing director, accused Hermoso of pressuring him to say the kiss was consensual.
He found evidence that the co-defendants tried to get Hermoso to “record a video saying the kiss was consensual,” and therefore may have committed a related crime.
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Hermoso filed a criminal complaint in September alleging sexual assault and coercion, saying she felt “vulnerable and the victim of an attack.”
Earlier this month, she testified in court The kiss was not consensual. The judges also heard from other World Cup winners, coaches and federation officials.
The kiss took place on August 20 last year and drew the ire of many soccer fans, but Spain's Football Federation (FA) initially supported Rubiales.
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At a press conference held a few days after the incident, members, including Wilda, applauded the chief's refusal to resign from office.
The social media hashtag #SeAcabo, which means “It's Over,” has become a rallying cry as people echo calls for his removal.
Three weeks later, during which time the Spanish women's team refused to play for their country Rubiales finally resigns.