Luis Rubiales Stands Firm, Insists Jenni Hermoso Consent Was Given Amid Scandalous Trial

 Former Spanish football federation president Luis Rubiales has once again defended himself in court, insisting that Spanish midfielder Jenni Hermoso gave him permission before the controversial kiss during Spain’s Women’s World Cup celebrations in August 2023.

Testifying before a Madrid court as part of an ongoing case against him, Rubiales asserted that the kiss was entirely consensual and a moment of shared joy following Spain’s historic triumph.

According to Sky News, Rubiales maintained that he was “absolutely sure” Hermoso had consented. He elaborated on the interaction, stating that their long-standing professional relationship played a role in the celebratory moment.

“When Jenni came up to me, she made a kind of face. We’ve known each other for a long time. Obviously, the kiss happened because we had just become world champions,” he explained.

Rubiales also detailed Hermoso’s embrace before the kiss, claiming that she lifted him off the ground in celebration.

“She had missed a penalty earlier in the tournament, so I told her, ‘Forget about the penalty—we’re champions because of you.’ Without her, we wouldn’t have won,” he recounted.

The former FA president then insisted that he explicitly asked for permission before the kiss.

“When I landed back on the ground, I said, ‘Can I give you a kiss?’ and she said, ‘Okay,’” Rubiales stated.

The case against Rubiales has sparked widespread controversy and discussions about sexism in sports. Many in the football community, including Hermoso and her teammates, have criticized his actions, while FIFA and the Spanish government have taken legal steps to hold him accountable.

The scandal has already led to Rubiales’ resignation from his role as Spanish FA president, and the ongoing legal battle will determine further consequences for the disgraced former official.