The now-suspended FA president Luis Rubiales was accused of sexual assault by prominent Spanish soccer star Jenni Hermoso. After the Women’s World Cup final, he had kissed her on the lips “without consent,” the prosecutor’s office claimed on Wednesday.
During the presentation of the awards, Rubiales kissed Hermoso on the lips. The World Cup was won by Spain on August 20 in Sydney, Australia, over England.
The kiss, according to the 46-year-old Spanish official, was consented to. Hermoso, however, disputes that. She said that the federation had put pressure on her family to back Rubiales. FIFA has placed him on suspension while an inquiry is ongoing.
Rubiales might be charged with a crime. Jorge Vilda, the head coach of Spain, was fired after complaining that the verdict was unfair. The suspended official has maintained his innocence throughout.
“I obviously made some mistakes, which I honestly and deeply regret. I’ve learned that sports leaders should be held to exemplary behaviour, and mine was not, notwithstanding how big the delight and how intense the passion, even when you win a World Cup,” he responded to the claims.
“The excitement and spontaneity of the historical moment inspired us to carry out a mutually agreed-upon act. There was never any hostility, in fact, neither person felt the slightest bit uncomfortable. Instead, they were both filled to the brim with joy.
According to a new sexual consent statute that was passed last year, the prosecutor’s office stated on Wednesday that Rubiales might get a fine or a prison sentence if proven guilty.
Also under investigation by Spain is Rubiales.