The forced kiss that shook Spanish football: The trial of Luis Rubiales and the fight for respect in women’s sports
The incident that ignited a firestorm of controversy and reignited the #MeToo movement within the Spanish football federation began with a seemingly innocuous gesture. During the celebratory aftermath of Spain’s historic World Cup victory, as players received their medals, then-president of the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), Luis Rubiales, embraced Jenni Hermoso, one of the team’s star players. What followed, however, was far from celebratory. Rubiales grabbed Hermoso’s head and kissed her on the lips, an act captured on camera that instantly sparked outrage and accusations of sexual assault. The kiss, far from being a consensual gesture of shared joy, became a symbol of the entrenched sexism and power imbalances that have long plagued women’s football. Hermoso herself stated that the kiss was unwanted and made her feel ”vulnerable and a victim of an impulse-driven, sexist, out-of-place act without any consent on my part.” This statement, alongside the visible discomfort exhibited by Hermoso in video footage, transformed the celebratory atmosphere into one of shock and disbelief.
The fallout from ”el beso” (the kiss) was swift and far-reaching. Condemnation poured in from across the world, from players, coaches, fans, and political figures alike. The international football governing body, FIFA, provisionally suspended Rubiales from all football-related activities, while the Spanish government initiated legal proceedings against him. The incident became a flashpoint, illuminating the deeply rooted sexism and misogyny within Spanish football and the broader societal context in which such actions are often dismissed or normalized. What might have been brushed aside as an overzealous celebration in the past, was now, thanks to the growing global awareness around consent and respect in professional settings, viewed as a clear violation. The incident ignited fervent debate about the treatment of women in sport, the abuse of power, and the urgent need for cultural change.
The Spanish women’s national team, in a remarkable display of solidarity, announced that they would refuse to play any further matches until Rubiales was removed from his position. This powerful act of defiance by the World Cup champions sent shockwaves through the footballing world, effectively holding the RFEF accountable for the actions of its president. Their collective stance amplified Hermoso’s voice and underscored the seriousness of the situation. The players’ refusal to play became a powerful symbol of resistance against sexism and abuse of power, resonating far beyond the football pitch. It highlighted the strength and unity of the team, showcasing their determination to fight for change and create a safer environment for themselves and future generations of female athletes. Their action served as a powerful reminder that athletes are not simply performers but also individuals deserving of respect and agency.
Adding fuel to the fire, Rubiales’ initial response to the incident was dismissive and defiant. He downplayed the kiss as a “mutual” and “spontaneous” gesture, accusing his critics of engaging in a “social assassination.” His refusal to acknowledge the impropriety of his actions further inflamed public sentiment and strengthened the calls for his resignation. His subsequent apology, viewed by many as forced and insincere, did little to quell the growing outrage. The continued support he received from certain factions within the RFEF, including his mother who embarked on a hunger strike on his behalf, further highlighted the deeply ingrained cultural norms that permit and even encourage such behavior. This resistance to accountability only served to underscore the systemic nature of the problem and the urgent need for comprehensive reform within the federation.
The incident involving Rubiales and Hermoso transcended the realm of sports. It became a potent symbol of the broader struggles faced by women against sexism and abuse of power. The case resonated with the #MeToo movement, amplifying the ongoing conversation about sexual harassment and assault in professional settings. It also highlighted the particular vulnerabilities faced by women in male-dominated fields like football, where power dynamics can be heavily skewed. The case served as a stark reminder that even in the euphoria of a World Cup victory, the fight for equality and respect remains ongoing. The global attention garnered by the incident forced a crucial conversation about consent, power dynamics, and the need for accountability in all spheres of life.
The trial of Luis Rubiales marks a pivotal moment in the fight for gender equality in Spanish football and beyond. It represents a test of whether institutions are willing to hold powerful figures accountable for their actions and prioritize the safety and well-being of female athletes. The outcome of the trial will have significant implications, not only for Rubiales’ future, but also for the future of women’s football in Spain. A conviction would send a strong message that such behavior will not be tolerated, while an acquittal would risk undermining the progress made in recent years and reinforce the perception that powerful men are immune to consequences. The trial is being closely watched by the international community, serving as a litmus test for how seriously Spain takes its commitment to addressing gender inequality and ensuring a safe and respectful environment for female athletes. Whatever the verdict, the case has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on Spanish football, prompting necessary conversations and driving demands for meaningful and lasting change.
