The spotlight on Spain’s ex-football federation chief Luis Rubiales intensifies as Jenni Hermoso’s brother, Rafael Hermoso, reveals shocking details about the pressure his sister faced after the infamous forced kiss scandal. The incident, which occurred after Spain’s victory over England in the 2023 Women’s World Cup final, has become a global symbol of resistance against sexism in sports.
During a trial on Wednesday, Rafael Hermoso told the Spanish National Court that his sister had been threatened with “professional and personal consequences” if she didn’t downplay the forced kiss. This revelation sheds new light on the emotional and psychological toll Hermoso endured after the incident that sparked outrage worldwide. Rubiales, who was at the center of the storm, eventually resigned, but the ripple effect of the scandal has profoundly affected Hermoso’s career and her stance in the fight for women’s rights in sports.
The forced kiss, which Rubiales dismissed as a mere “peck between friends celebrating,” quickly became a lightning rod for criticism. Hermoso, who had just helped secure Spain’s monumental victory, was subjected to intense pressure by former national team coach Jorge Vilda. On the flight back from the World Cup, Vilda allegedly approached Rafael Hermoso, urging him to convince his sister to record a video claiming she was unbothered by the kiss. According to Rafael, Vilda framed the situation as one where Jenni, “already had a career” and could either cooperate to safeguard her professional future or risk facing uncertain consequences.
The disturbing details came to light during the ongoing trial, where Rubiales faces charges of sexual assault for the forced kiss and coercion for allegedly pressuring Hermoso into downplaying the incident. Prosecutors are seeking a two-and-a-half-year prison sentence for Rubiales, one year for sexual assault and an additional 18 months for coercion. Rubiales, however, continues to deny all allegations, calling the kiss a harmless gesture of celebration. He is set to testify in court on February 12.
The scandal has reverberated far beyond Spain, galvanizing a movement against entrenched macho culture and sexism in sports, with Hermoso emerging as an icon for gender equality and justice. Her brave stance and the legal proceedings have brought the issue of abuse and exploitation within sports to the forefront, demanding accountability at the highest levels.
As the trial continues, the testimonies from Hermoso’s teammates further underscore the pressure she was under. Misa Rodriguez, Hermoso’s teammate and goalkeeper, recounted how the striker was visibly shaken and emotional following the flight. Rodriguez revealed that Hermoso had not indicated the kiss was consensual at any point, further solidifying the argument that Hermoso was coerced into downplaying the incident.
Alongside Rubiales, former federation officials Ruben Rivera and Albert Luque are also facing charges. They are accused of attempting to coerce Hermoso into minimizing the significance of the kiss. Prosecutors are seeking 18 months of imprisonment for them as well.
This trial marks a crucial moment in the fight for women’s rights in sports, with Jenni Hermoso’s courage inspiring countless individuals to stand up against misconduct and discrimination. The outcome of this case could have profound implications, not only for Rubiales and the Spanish football federation but also for the broader cultural and institutional changes necessary to create a safer, more equitable environment for women in sport.
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