Luis Rubiales, the former president of the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), has been banned from all football-related activities for three years following a controversial incident during the Women's World Cup final on August 20, 2023. During the medal ceremony, Rubiales kissed Spanish footballer Jenni Hermoso on the lips without her consent, sparking widespread outrage and leading to significant repercussions within the football community.
Hermoso, who was visibly uncomfortable with the kiss, later expressed her disapproval, stating that she "didn't like" the unwelcome gesture. Despite initial attempts to downplay the incident as a "totally spontaneous mutual gesture," Hermoso clarified in her testimony at Madrid's High Court on January 2, 2024, that the kiss was given without her consent. She further emphasized the importance of addressing such incidents to create a precedent for social change.
"After all, this will create an important precedent in a social environment in which much remains to be done." – Jenni Hermoso
The incident sparked criticism from various quarters, including Spain's acting Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, who branded Rubiales' conduct as "unacceptable" on August 22, 2023. The controversy intensified when the FA chair, Debbie Hewitt, accused Rubiales of forcefully kissing England defender Lucy Bronze and touching Laura Coombs' face during the same event.
In response to the backlash, Rubiales issued a video statement apologizing for his actions on August 21, 2023. Despite this apology, FIFA opened proceedings against him on August 24, 2023. The situation escalated further when Spain's women's coaching staff resigned en masse on August 26, 2023, with the notable exception of manager Jorge Vilda.
The RFEF also took a stance against Rubiales' actions by issuing an apology for the "enormous damage" caused on September 5, 2023. Later that month, Rubiales was ordered to testify before a Spanish judge investigating the incident. His appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) on January 16, 2024, was ultimately rejected on February 21, 2025, solidifying his three-year ban from football.
Moreover, Rubiales faced legal consequences beyond the realm of football. On February 11, 2025, the Audiencia Nacional court fined him 20 euros a day for 18 months and prohibited him from approaching or communicating with Hermoso for one year. This followed his conviction for sexually assaulting Hermoso, though he was acquitted of coercion.
Despite these developments, Rubiales continued to contest his ban. He submitted an appeal to CAS over his three-year suspension from football activities. However, CAS upheld the ban after reviewing the case on February 21, 2025.
The incident also had far-reaching implications within the RFEF and Spain's national team. In addition to the mass resignation of the women's coaching staff, there was a noticeable impact on team morale and public perception of Spanish football governance. The events highlighted ongoing issues related to gender dynamics and respect within sports environments.
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