By Former football federation chief Luis Rubiales is facing potential trial for allegedly kissing player Jenni Hermoso without her consent after Spain’s Women’s World Cup victory. The High Court judge, Francisco de Jorge, has proposed a trial not only for Rubiales but also for former women’s team coach Jorge Vilda, men’s team sport director Albert Luque, and federation marketing chief Ruben Rivera. The court’s statement highlights that the kiss, initially claimed to be consensual by Rubiales, was deemed non-consensual and unexpected according to the investigation. Hermoso had filed a criminal complaint in September, citing feelings of vulnerability and victimization. This case has triggered widespread shock and initiated a MeToo movement in Spain, symbolized by the social media hashtag #SeAcabo (“It’s over”). Aside from the kiss incident, the judge notes potential wrongdoing in pressuring Hermoso to make a video claiming consent. Rubiales has since resigned from his position and is serving a FIFA ban, while Vilda has taken up a coaching role in Morocco. The court will now consider arguments from prosecutors and lawyers before deciding on a trial.
