In a landmark case that has ignited nationwide conversations about sexism in sports, Spain's high court has fined former football federation president Luis Rubiales over a non-consensual kiss incident. Rubiales was found guilty of sexual assault for kissing midfielder Jenni Hermoso without her consent during the 2023 World Cup awards ceremony in Sydney.
The court imposed a fine of more than 10,000 euros (approximately $10,434) on Rubiales but acquitted him of a coercion charge. Despite the ruling, Rubiales announced his intention to appeal, stating, \"I am going to keep fighting.\" Hermoso's lawyer, Angel Chavarria, also plans to appeal the decision, though further details were not provided.
The incident has sparked a heated debate in Spain about sexism in women's football and society at large, giving momentum to the broader \"Me Too\" movement within the country. Prosecutors had initially sought a prison sentence for Rubiales, 47, highlighting the severity of the case. However, Judge Jose Manuel Fernandez-Prieto determined that while the act was unequivocally reproachable, it did not warrant a custodial sentence due to the absence of violence or intimidation.
In addition to the financial penalty, the court has imposed restrictions on Rubiales, preventing him from approaching Hermoso within 200 meters (218 yards) and from communicating with her for one year. He is also required to pay Hermoso 3,000 euros (about $3,151) in compensation. The daily fine of 20 euros (approximately $21) will continue over an 18-month period.
Rubiales is already under scrutiny due to a separate corruption investigation related to commissions from a deal to host the Spanish Super Cup in Saudi Arabia. Throughout the trial, Rubiales maintained that Hermoso consented to the kiss amidst the celebratory atmosphere. However, the court found Hermoso’s testimony credible, ultimately leading to Rubiales' conviction for sexual assault.
This scandal, which overshadowed Spain's historic victory in the World Cup, has brought to light significant issues regarding gender dynamics and respect within the realm of professional sports.
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Former Spanish football chief Rubiales fined over non-consensual kiss
cgtn.com
