Spanish Soccer Federation president Luis Rubiales has been accused of sexual assault and coercion by Spanish prosecutors for allegedly kissing soccer player Jenni Hermoso on the lips without consent after the team’s Women’s World Cup win, several outlets report, a charge punishable by a fine or possibly one to four years in prison.
Luis Rubiales could face prison time if the case is brought to trial. He faces sexual assault claims ... [+]
Rubiales has called the kiss consensual, but Hermoso says otherwise, prompting prosecutors to bring forth the sexual assault claim.
The act of coercion claim was added due to Hermoso saying she was pressured by Rubiales to defend him after backlash ensued, the Associated Press reported.
As players and supporters alike celebrated Spain’s first Women’s World Cup win against England on August 20, Rubiales kissed Hermoso on the lips–triggering widespread controversy around consent, and an investigation into the chief’s behavior. Rubiales was suspended for 90 days by FIFA, and the Spanish women’s soccer team coach has been fired. Friday’s announcement from the Spanish prosecutor’s office surrounding potential charges comes after their sex abuse investigation into Rubiales, and as a Spanish court previously said Rubiales’ offenses against Hermoso were “serious” but not “very serious.”
A National Court judge will decide whether to hear the case, which will launch the court’s formal investigation that could end in either the judge dismissing the claims or Rubiales going to trial.
Amid the legal battle Hermoso (who is playing for a Mexican soccer team) and her former teammates and fellow World Cup champions launched a strike Thursday after the union did not reach an agreement with the league over increased minimum salary, financial aid funds for college and other requests, according to women’s soccer union Liga F.
Jenni Hermoso Accuses Spanish Soccer Chief Of Sexual Assault For Non-Consensual Kiss (Forbes)
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Spanish Men’s Soccer Team Finally Condemns Rubiales’ Behavior 2 Weeks After Kissing Incident (Forbes)
Luis Rubiales: Prosecutors Open Sex Abuse Investigation Into Spanish Soccer Head (Forbes)