Rubiales claims Hermoso consented to kiss during 2023 World Cup celebrations

Luis Rubiales says that Spanish footballer Jenni Hermoso consented to the kiss he gave her after the Women’s World Cup final in 2023.

The former president of the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) is currently facing trial on charges of sexual assault and coercion, with accusations that he pressured Hermoso into declaring the kiss as consensual.

Appearing before Spain’s National Court in Madrid, Rubiales said: “I was absolutely sure” that Hermoso had agreed to the kiss. He described the moment as “completely spontaneous.”

The controversial incident took place during the medal ceremony following Spain’s triumph in the World Cup, sparking widespread protests and demands for Rubiales’ resignation. He continues to deny any criminal wrongdoing.

During his testimony, Rubiales added: “This was a tremendous moment for her. We were thanking each other, she pressed me very hard around the waist and then I asked her whether I could give her a kiss and she said yes.

“I took hold of her so as not to fall back.”

🚨🗣️ Rubiales narra lo sucedido en aquella entrega de medallas: “Me apretó muy fuerte, me levantó, le pregunté puedo darte un besito y me dijo vale” pic.twitter.com/fdzCoYnrHz

— MARCA (@marca) February 11, 2025

When questioned in court about the exact wording he used when asking for the kiss – whether he said “a kiss” or “a little kiss” – Rubiales responded: “I can’t remember exactly, but I think it was a little kiss.”

He was also asked whether he was aware of regulations regarding sexual harassment and sexual violence, to which he affirmed that he was.

Hermoso in her previous court statements, has firmly denied giving consent, saying the incident “stained one of the happiest days of my life.”

On Tuesday, a lip-reading expert testified in court, analysing video footage where Hermoso’s face was not visible. According to their findings, Rubiales asked: “Can I give you a kiss?”

Although Rubiales acknowledged that his actions on the podium were inappropriate, he insisted no crime was committed. “I made a mistake,” he admitted. “My behaviour was not appropriate, and I should have been in a more institutional role.”

Prosecutors are seeking a two-and-a-half-year prison sentence for Rubiales.