“Luis Rubiales, former boss of Spanish football, had to answer Friday before a judge for the accusations of sexual assault against him. Indeed, during the forced kiss he gave to the player Jennifer Hermoso, Rubiales had triggered a wave of international indignation. Following this affair, tension within Spanish football reached a new high point, with almost all of the world champions demanding changes within the Federation, including the resignation of the president interim, Pedro Rocha, and a complete restructuring of the women’s football organization chart.
This demand for radical change was expressed in a press release signed by 21 of the 23 world champions, supported by 39 players in total. They condition their return to selection on the satisfaction of these requests. While the Spanish Federation had recently expressed its optimism regarding the return of the world champions, this announcement comes as a real shock for the governing body of Spanish football.
At the same time, Luis Rubiales was banned from coming within 200 meters of Jennifer Hermoso and making contact with her. During his hearing before the judge, Rubiales reaffirmed that the kiss was consensual, but this version is contested by the player who filed the complaint. The case is now in the hands of the courts and no decision is expected in the short term.
This affair highlights a broader problem in the world of football, that of violence and sexism. An non-consensual kiss is now considered sexual assault in Spain, which highlights the importance of awareness and questioning behavior.
Pending developments in this case, it is essential to remember that it is necessary to put in place concrete measures to combat sexual violence and promote equality in football. Players deserve to be respected and to be able to develop in a safe and inclusive environment where their talent and performances are recognized at their true value.”