Spanish Football President Faces Lawsuit Over Alleged Sexual Assault
Spanish Football Federation President Luis Rubiales is facing legal action after being accused of sexual assault and coercion by Spain forward Jenni Hermoso. State prosecutors have filed a lawsuit against Rubiales in Madrid’s National Court, following Hermoso’s own legal complaint. The incident in question occurred during the trophy presentation after the Women’s World Cup final last month.
Hermoso claims that Rubiales kissed her on the lips without her consent, and the Spanish Football Federation president has been suspended by FIFA while they investigate the matter. Rubiales, who has faced widespread criticism for his actions, has refused to resign despite calls to do so.
The alleged act of coercion stems from Hermoso’s accusation that Rubiales pressured her to defend him publicly after the scandal broke. Rubiales asserts that the kiss was consensual, but Hermoso denies this. Prosecutors have requested that Rubiales appear in court for preliminary testimony.
If the National Court judge decides to hear the case, it could lead to a formal investigation and a recommendation to either dismiss the charges or proceed to trial. Spain’s sexual consent law, enacted last year, stipulates that Rubiales could be fined or imprisoned for one to four years if found guilty of sexual assault.
The controversy surrounding Rubiales has had significant repercussions for the Spanish national team. Eighty-one players, including all 23 World Cup winners, have announced that they will not play for the team as long as Rubiales remains in charge.
This development casts a cloud of uncertainty over Spain’s football administration. Rubiales, who previously attracted attention for grabbing his crotch during celebrations after Spain’s victory over England, now faces a legal battle that could potentially have both personal and professional consequences.
The case has drawn international attention and highlights the importance of consent and appropriate behavior within the sporting world. As the investigation unfolds, Spanish football will have to grapple with the fallout and make sure that justice is served, while also addressing any necessary reforms to prevent similar incidents in the future.
