Spain’s World Cup-winning star Jenni Hermoso has testified that she did not consent to the kiss from former Spanish FA president Luis Rubiales, calling it an act that tainted one of the happiest moments of her life.
Speaking at Madrid’s High Court on Monday, Hermoso, 34, said: “I knew I was being kissed by my boss, and that should not happen in any social or work environment.”
Rubiales, 47, sat nearby taking notes as she recounted the moment seen by millions during Spain’s 2023 World Cup victory celebrations.
Rubiales faces charges of sexual assault and coercion, accused of pressuring Hermoso to publicly support him. He denies any wrongdoing, insisting the kiss was consensual.
The scandal overshadowed Spain’s first-ever Women’s World Cup triumph and ignited a broader fight for gender equality in football.
The trial continues, with Hermoso’s teammates, including Ballon d’Or winner Alexia Putellas, set to testify.
