What started as a proud moment for Spain’s women’s national football team has now ended in one of the country’s most talked-about legal rulings. Luis Rubiales, the former president of the Spanish Football Federation, has officially lost his appeal. The court has upheld his conviction, and people all over Spain are reacting — some with satisfaction, others with frustration.
The case became national news after Rubiales kissed player Jenni Hermoso on the lips during the Women’s World Cup victory ceremony. It was supposed to be a celebration, but that moment changed everything.
The Kiss That Sparked a Legal Battle
Back in August 2023, after Spain won the Women’s World Cup, Rubiales hugged and kissed Hermoso during the medal ceremony. The video was everywhere within minutes. While Rubiales called it “a spontaneous celebration,” Hermoso said she did not give consent and felt uncomfortable and shocked by what happened.
That’s when things turned serious. Activists, fans, and even government officials started speaking out. Many said the kiss wasn’t just inappropriate — it was an example of how women in sports are still disrespected and treated unfairly.
Soon, legal charges were filed. Rubiales was accused of sexual assault and coercion.
Court Says: Guilty Stands
This week, a Spanish court reviewed the case again — and the judge decided that the original conviction would stand. That means Rubiales is officially guilty of wrongdoing, and his defense that it was a mutual, harmless kiss didn’t hold up in court.
Although he might not face jail time, the conviction is serious. It could stop him from holding any public position again, and it has already destroyed his reputation.
One legal expert said, “The court is making it clear — even if you’re powerful, you still have to respect boundaries.”
A Country Reacts: Some Cheer, Some Still Angry
Reactions to the court’s decision are mixed. Outside the courthouse, some people clapped and said it was a victory for women and respect. Others said the case had gone too far and that Rubiales had already paid enough by losing his job.
“I’m just glad she was believed,” said one woman holding a sign that read “Se acabó” (It’s over). “This means something for every girl who’s ever been touched without saying yes.”
Still, Rubiales has his defenders. A few believe the situation was exaggerated and the court gave in to public pressure. “It was a moment of excitement, not an attack,” one man said.
What’s Next for Rubiales?
Rubiales has already stepped down as president of the Spanish Football Federation. FIFA also banned him from any football-related activity for several years. His legal team may try to take the case to a higher court, but many think it’s the end of the road.
Meanwhile, Jenni Hermoso continues to speak out about player rights, respect, and safety. The support she received throughout the process has inspired many women to share their own stories and call out bad behavior in sports and beyond.
This wasn’t just about one kiss. For many, it was about finally saying, “Enough.”
