February 22:
"MADRID", Luis Rubiales, the former president of Spain’s Royal Football Federation (RFEF), is embroiled in a legal and ethical firestorm following his non-consensual kiss of player Jenni Hermoso during the 2023 Women’s World Cup medal ceremony, an incident that has ignited global condemnation, resignations, and criminal charges.
On August 20, 2023, Spain celebrated its first Women’s World Cup victory in Sydney, Australia, after defeating England 1-0. During the medal ceremony, Rubiales, 46, grabbed midfielder Jenni Hermoso, 33, by the head and kissed her on the lips which was broadcasted globally. Hermoso later stated the act was “not consensual,” sparking immediate outrage.
Rubiales initially dismissed critics as “idiots,”.
Facing mounting pressure, FIFA suspended Rubiales on August 26 for 90 days. Despite defiant vows to cling to power, he resigned as RFEF president on September 10, acknowledging his position had become “untenable.” His departure followed mass protests across Spain, with players’ unions, government officials, and even the Spanish women’s team refusing to play until leadership changes were made.
Rubiales has been fined 10000 euro and he is not allowed to go within 200 metres of Jenni Hermoso for the next year. Rubiales ban bars him from football activities until 2026, effectively ending his career in sports governance.
Jenni Hermoso quoted on the incident as " The incident had stained one of the happiest days of my life"
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