Luis Rubiales claims Jenni Hermoso consented to World Cup kiss

Luis Rubiales, the former Spanish football federation chief, is on trial for sexual assault and coercion, accused of non-consensually kissing player Jenni Hermoso after Spain's 2023 Women's World Cup win. Rubiales insists that Hermoso consented to the kiss, claiming he asked her permission during the celebration. However, Hermoso has publicly stated that no such consent was given and described the incident as inappropriate, particularly in a professional setting. This case has sparked significant controversy, overshadowing Spain's World Cup victory and highlighting broader issues of sexism in Spanish football. Rubiales also faces allegations of attempting to coerce Hermoso into publicly declaring the kiss consensual, with the assistance of three other former officials. The trial continues to develop, and its outcomes could have lasting implications for gender parity in sports.