Embattled Spanish football federation president Luis Rubiales could face up to four years in prison if convicted of sexual assault and coercion stemming from his allegedly unsolicited kiss on the lips of Women’s World Cup winner Jenni Beautiful.
Spanish state prosecutors unveiled criminal charges against Rubiales on Friday, three days after Hermoso filed a formal sexual assault complaint.
Rubiales was suspended from his job for 90 days by FIFA pending an investigation by soccer’s governing body after kissing Hermoso during the award ceremony following Spain’s victory over England at the Women’s World Cup in Sydney. last month.
Spanish prosecutors presented the case against Rubiales before the National Court in Madrid.
Rubiales could face a fine or a prison sentence of one to four years if convicted of sexual assault, under a law adopted last year that eliminated the difference between “sexual harassment” and “sexual assault.”
The suspended president of the Spanish Football Federation, Luis Rubiales, could face prison time for allegedly kissing Jenni Hermoso without consent. fox sports
Prosecutors said Friday that Rubiales may have committed an act of coercion when, according to Hermoso, he and his “professional environment” pressured the player and her family to say that she “justified and approved of what happened.”
Rubiales has insisted that the kiss was consensual and has refused to resign, stating in a fiery speech that she was the victim of a “witch hunt” by “false feminists.”
Hermoso, 33, has denied this in statements issued by her and her players’ union.
Prosecutors have asked a judge to have Rubiales appear in court to give preliminary testimony.
Hermoso, 33, filed a formal complaint against Rubiales, alleging sexual assault. AFP via Getty Images
If the National Court judge agrees to hear the case, it would lead to a formal judicial investigation that will end with a recommendation that the case be dismissed or go to trial.
Prosecutor Marta Durentez Gil also asked the Australian authorities to clarify whether the incident would be considered a sexual offense in that country.
In addition to possible criminal prosecution, Rubiales faces a government investigation to determine whether he abused his authority by kissing Hermoso or tarnished Spain’s image with his actions.
The result of the investigation could mean that the 46-year-old soccer coach is declared unable to hold his position for two years.
Rubiales was suspended from his job for 90 days by FIFA pending an investigation. AFP via Getty Images
Rubiales’ antics in the Australian final on August 20, which included an obscene crotch grab while standing next to Spain’s queen and teen princess, combined with her defiant speech have sullied the Women’s World Cup title and have caused widespread indignation in Spain.
Spanish players have said they will not play for their nation again unless major changes are made to the federation.
The federation has since fired coach Jorge Vilda, a Rubiales ally, but the players have yet to say if that was enough to get them back on the pitch.
Rubiales, a former player and former president of Spain’s largest players’ union, has led the federation since 2018.
Rubiales, 46, has refused to resign after presenting himself as the victim of a “witch hunt.”
It has increased revenue and funding for lower-level soccer and women’s soccer, but its successes have been tainted with scandal.
Rubiales revolutionized the Spanish Super Cup in 2019 by taking it to Saudi Arabia, now the big draw for top European talents like Cristiano Ronaldo, in exchange for $40 million a year.
The measure was criticized by women’s and human rights groups for the regime’s treatment of women and minorities.
Protesters hold red cards during a demonstration calling for Rubiales’ resignation.Getty Images
Spanish authorities have also examined the deal and an investigating judge is investigating the legality of the Super Cup contracts.
With postal cables
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Source: vtt.edu.vn