Misdirected Affection

The Spanish football world was rocked in August 2023 when Luis Rubiales, then-president of the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), kissed player Jenni Hermoso on the lips during the medal ceremony following Spain’s victory in the Women’s World Cup. This seemingly innocuous act ignited a firestorm of controversy, sparking widespread condemnation and accusations of sexual assault. The incident, captured on live television, quickly became symbolic of the ongoing struggle for gender equality in sports and the broader societal issue of consent.

Rubiales’s defense that the kiss was consensual and a mere “act of affection” was swiftly countered by Hermoso, who vehemently denied giving her consent and asserted that the unwanted kiss had tarnished her moment of triumph. Her statement resonated with many, transforming the incident from a fleeting moment of awkwardness into a powerful catalyst for change. The kiss became a rallying cry, fueling protests across Spain and prompting a wave of resignations within the RFEF, including the entire women’s national team coaching staff, in solidarity with Hermoso. The incident exposed deep-seated issues of sexism and abuse of power within the Spanish football federation, prompting calls for systemic reform.

The ensuing legal battle culminated in August 2024, nearly a year after the incident, with a Spanish court finding Rubiales guilty of sexual assault. While prosecutors had sought a prison sentence, the court ultimately imposed a fine of €10,800 (£8,942) and issued a one-year restraining order, prohibiting Rubiales from approaching or communicating with Hermoso. Significantly, the judge explicitly acknowledged the sexual connotation of the kiss, emphasizing that such an action was inappropriate between individuals not in an intimate relationship. This legal affirmation of Hermoso’s experience validated her claims and reinforced the importance of respecting boundaries and obtaining consent.

The court also addressed the coercion charges brought against three of Rubiales’s former colleagues: coach Jorge Vilda, marketing head Rubén Rivera, and sporting director Albert Luque. All three were acquitted of these charges, narrowing the focus of legal culpability specifically to Rubiales’s actions. This distinction highlighted the personal responsibility of Rubiales while acknowledging that the broader cultural context within the RFEF may have contributed to an environment where such an incident could occur.

The Rubiales case transcended the realm of sports, becoming a potent symbol of the #MeToo movement in Spain. It galvanized a national conversation about consent, power dynamics, and the pervasive sexism that continues to plague many institutions, including the world of sports. The incident served as a stark reminder that even in moments of national celebration, the fight for gender equality and respect must remain at the forefront. Hermoso’s bravery in speaking out not only brought her own experience to light but also empowered other women to share their stories and demand accountability for inappropriate behavior.

The fallout from the “kiss that shook Spain” continues to reverberate. While Rubiales has faced legal and professional consequences, the broader impact of the incident is still unfolding. The pressure for systemic change within the RFEF remains, with calls for greater representation of women in leadership positions and the implementation of policies that promote a culture of respect and equality. The case serves as a cautionary tale, underscoring the importance of ongoing vigilance in the fight against sexism and the need for continued efforts to create a truly equitable and inclusive environment in sports and beyond. The legacy of the 2023 Women’s World Cup victory will forever be intertwined with this incident, a reminder that progress towards gender equality is an ongoing journey, not a destination.