Former Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) president Luis Rubiales has vowed to continue his legal battle after being found guilty of sexually assaulting Spain women's national team player Jenni Hermoso. The incident, which involved an non-consensual kiss following the 2023 World Cup final, has resulted in a court-ordered fine of €10,800.
Spain's High Court delivered the verdict on Thursday, implementing additional restrictions that prohibit Rubiales from approaching within 200 meters of Hermoso or attempting any form of communication with the Tigres forward for a period of one year. While the court found him guilty of sexual assault, Rubiales was cleared of coercion charges related to allegations that he attempted to pressure Hermoso into publicly declaring the kiss consensual.
Throughout the proceedings, Rubiales maintained his stance that the controversial kiss was merely an "act of affection" that occurred "completely spontaneously." Despite prosecutors pushing for prison time, the court opted for a financial penalty instead. The former football chief, who stepped down from his RFEF position in September 2023 amid growing pressure, has indicated his intention to appeal the court's decision.
The case has garnered significant attention since the incident occurred, leading to Rubiales's eventual resignation from his position as RFEF president. While Hermoso may have hoped for closure with this verdict, Rubiales's determination to "continue fighting" suggests this legal saga may extend further, with the next steps in his appeal process yet to be determined.
