Rubiales Faces Potential Charges for Unsolicited World Cup Kiss
Luis Rubiales, the president of the Spanish soccer federation, is now under investigation by Spanish prosecutors for an incident involving Jenni Hermoso during the 2023 Women’s World Cup. The alleged incident occurred on August 20, sparking an intense legal and disciplinary scrutiny.
Potential Sexual Aggression Charges
Spanish prosecutors declared on Monday that Rubiales could potentially face charges of sexual aggression. The controversy erupted when Rubiales visibly kissed Hermoso on the lips following World Cup team Spain’s victory over England in the World Cup final. Hermoso repeatedly emphasized that the kiss was nonconsensual.
“We have agreed to contact Jennifer Hermoso in order to inform her of her rights as a victim of an alleged crime of sexual aggression in the next 15 days,” stated the Prosecutor’s Office, as reported by CNN.
Suspension and Refusal to Resign
As a consequence of his actions, FIFA suspended Rubiales from all soccer-related activities for a minimum of 90 days. This suspension awaits a comprehensive disciplinary investigation by the global soccer governing body. Despite numerous calls for his resignation from players, coaches, and Spanish government officials, Luis Rubiales offered an apology but remained steadfast in his refusal to step down from his role.
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Dueling Claims and Investigations
The Spanish soccer federation, in contrast, questions the veracity of Hermoso’s account and has announced its intention to take legal action against her. Additionally, the federation disclosed that it has initiated an investigation into Rubiales’ actions.
María Dolores Martínez Madrona, the Federation’s sexual violence protocol delegate, urged respect for privacy while revealing ongoing investigations. The potential legal consequences for Rubiales in Spain, according to the European Institute for Gender Equality, range from one to five years of imprisonment for sexual assault.
In a striking twist, Rubiales’ mother reportedly resorted to locking herself in a church and launching a hunger strike in protest against her son’s treatment. The incident has sent shockwaves through the soccer community and beyond, highlighting the complex and delicate nature of such controversies.
Stay tuned with Godds social media as this investigation unfolds, bringing the spotlight to the intersection of sports, law, and society.
