Luis Rubiales faces jail time after kiss with Jenni Hermoso at World Cup

In August 2023, after Spain's Women's World Cup victory against England, former Spanish football chief Luis Rubiales kissed player Jenni Hermoso on the lips during the medal ceremony in Sydney. This act led to allegations of sexual assault as Rubiales is accused of kissing Hermoso without clear consent, resulting in a trial in Madrid where he faces two and a half years in prison. Rubiales claimed in court that Hermoso had agreed to the kiss and that he acted out of emotion following their championship win. Furthermore, accusations surfaced that he attempted to coerce Hermoso into claiming the kiss was consensual. The controversy surrounding the kiss overshadowed Spain’s momentous achievement and sparked an outcry regarding sexism in sports, highlighting ongoing issues in gender equality within the realm of athletics. Rubiales, who dismissed his critics as "idiots and stupid people," has been urged by the Spanish public and media to take accountability for his actions regarding Hermoso. His claim of seeking her consent has been met with skepticism, especially in light of the power dynamics involved in the situation. After the incident, Rubiales reportedly apologized to Hermoso, citing he got carried away by emotions and the euphoria of the moment. Nevertheless, the damage was done—the backlash from fans, players, and active gender equality advocates pointed to a larger issue within the sport and society at large concerning women's rights and the treatment of female athletes. The incident has precipitated discussions about appropriate conduct in the context of sports celebrations and the need for better understanding of consent. As Rubiales continues to defend himself in court, the gravity of the situation showcases not only an individual scandal but also a cultural shift whereby female athletes are starting to refuse to tolerate harassment and sexism, asserting their right to a respectful working environment. The resolution of this case may play a significant role in shaping future interactions and expectations for conduct in professional sports, particularly regarding gender dynamics.