Luis Rubiales Fined €10,800 for Jenni Hermoso Kiss

Spain's Ex-Football Boss Luis Rubiales Fined €10,800 for Controversial World Cup Kiss

Madrid, Spain - February 2025

Spain's former football federation chief, Luis Rubiales, has been found guilty of sexual assault for kissing national team star Jenni Hermoso without her consent during the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup trophy presentation. The Spanish High Court ruled that Rubiales must pay a fine of €10,800 (£8,942) but acquitted him of coercion charges.

The Infamous Kiss That Shook Spanish Football

The controversial incident occurred on August 20, 2023, in Sydney, Australia, as Spain's women's team celebrated their historic 1-0 victory over England in the World Cup final. While presenting the medals, Rubiales grabbed Hermoso by the head and kissed her on the lips, an act that sparked global outrage.

Millions of fans watching live and an entire stadium witnessed the moment, leading to widespread protests, player walkouts, and demands for Rubiales' resignation. Despite initially refusing to step down, he eventually resigned in September 2023 after mounting pressure from FIFA, Spanish authorities, and international criticism.

Court Verdict & Sentencing Details

Fine: €10,800 (£8,942)

Restraining Order: Cannot go within 200 meters of Hermoso for one year

Acquitted of Coercion: No evidence found of Rubiales pressuring Hermoso to declare the kiss was consensual

Other Accused Cleared: Jorge Vilda (World Cup-winning coach), Rubén Rivera (RFEF's former marketing head), and Albert Luque (ex-sporting director) were all acquitted

Jenni Hermoso's Testimony

During her testimony, Hermoso firmly denied consenting to the kiss. She described the incident as something that "stained one of the happiest days of my life."

"My boss was kissing me, and this shouldn't happen in any social or work setting. A kiss on the lips is only given when I decide so."

Rubiales' Defense & Appeal Plans

Rubiales, who continues to deny wrongdoing, argued in court that the kiss was merely "an act of affection" and "spontaneous". He stated that he was "absolutely sure" Hermoso had consented. Following the ruling, he announced plans to appeal the decision.

Impact on Spanish Women's Football

The incident triggered a #MeToo movement in Spanish women's football, leading to major calls for reform within the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF). Top players, including Ballon d'Or winner Alexia Putellas, backed Hermoso, calling for structural changes to eliminate sexism in the sport.

Kingcrossbarr Analysis

The ruling against Rubiales highlights the increasing accountability in global football governance. The case has set a precedent in sports ethics, reinforcing player rights and gender equality in the game