Madrid, August 28 – Spain’s High Court prosecutor has commenced a preliminary investigation into Luis Rubiales, the head of the national soccer federation, in response to allegations of potential sexual aggression. This investigation stems from an incident where Rubiales grabbed player Jenni Hermoso and kissed her on the lips following Spain’s victory in the women’s World Cup. The move has intensified the scrutiny on Rubiales, the president of the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), who was suspended by FIFA on Saturday, sparking a wave of discussions about consent, gender dynamics, and macho behavior.
A spokesperson for the prosecutor’s office disclosed that while several complaints have been received, a comprehensive inquiry will only proceed if Jenni Hermoso herself requests it. Hermoso has publicly asserted that she did not consent to the kiss.
Rubiales, 46, has refused to resign amidst the controversy, arguing that the kiss, which occurred during a globally watched live broadcast, was consensual. This stance contradicts Hermoso’s position, as well as those of her teammates and the Spanish government, who contend that the kiss was unwanted and demeaning.
The RFEF regional chiefs, following an extended meeting, issued a statement on Monday night unanimously calling for Rubiales’ immediate resignation. They cited the recent events and perceived “unacceptable behaviors” that have tarnished the reputation of Spanish football.
The incident’s repercussions have expanded into a broader discussion on women’s rights, macho behavior, and sexual abuse. The Sports Administrative Court convened an extraordinary meeting on Monday to determine whether a case against Rubiales should be pursued.
Acting Labour Minister Yolanda Diaz criticized Rubiales’ defiance and the support he garnered from some federation members, highlighting the systemic nature of macho behavior in Spanish society. Diaz expressed that what Jenni Hermoso experienced “should never have happened.”
Protests organized by feminist groups took place in downtown Madrid in solidarity with Hermoso and against Rubiales. The participants called for Rubiales’ resignation, chanting slogans that characterized the incident as aggression rather than a simple kiss.
A United Nations spokesperson addressed the issue, emphasizing that sexism remains a critical concern in sports. The spokesperson urged Spanish authorities and the government to address the matter in a manner that respects the rights of all female athletes.
In an unexpected development, Rubiales’ mother, Angeles Bejar, initiated a hunger strike and locked herself inside a church to protest her son’s treatment. This further underscores the intensity of the controversy.
The incident has also impacted the Spanish national team. All 23 players on Spain’s World Cup-winning squad, including Hermoso, along with numerous other team members, declared their refusal to participate in international matches while Rubiales remains in his position. Their next scheduled match is against Sweden in the Nations League on September 22.
Rubiales has remained resolute in his stance. At a recent federation meeting, where his resignation was expected, he defended his behavior, characterizing the kiss as “spontaneous, mutual, euphoric, and consensual.” The RFEF has echoed his determination, asserting that Rubiales will pursue legal avenues to prove “his complete innocence.”
As the controversy continues to unfold, it has ignited discussions on broader societal issues, emphasizing the evolving cultural landscape and the ongoing reevaluation of gender norms and respectful behavior in Spain.
