Rubiales Trial Sparks Outcry Over Consent, Abuse of Power

In the ongoing trial of former Spanish Football Federation president Luis Rubiales, football star Jenni Hermoso testified that she did not consent to the kiss he gave her during the 2023 Women's World Cup victory celebrations. The incident, which Rubiales claims was consensual, has led to charges of sexual assault and coercion against him, with prosecutors seeking a two-and-a-half-year prison sentence and a €50,000 fine. Hermoso described feeling disrespected and pressured to publicly defend Rubiales after the incident, stating it marred one of the happiest days of her life. Several other officials are also on trial for allegedly coercing Hermoso into supporting Rubiales' narrative. The trial has sparked widespread outrage and reignited discussions about sexism and abuse of power in sports, with many calling for accountability. Rubiales, who resigned following the backlash and received a FIFA ban, is expected to testify later in February.