Two weeks have passed since the incident of the forced kiss that shook Spain, and the captain of the women’s football team decided to file a complaint on Wednesday, September 6, against Luis Rubiales, the president of the Spanish Football Federation.
The world of football in general, and women’s football in particular, was shocked by the actions of the president of the Spanish Football Federation, Luis Rubiales. Following the historic victory of the Spanish women’s team in the Women’s World Cup final on August 20 in Sydney, Australia, Rubiales forcibly kissed the team captain, Jenni Hermoso.
During a live broadcast from the locker room, the victim expressed her discontent with the inappropriate behavior of the head of the Spanish football organization. A few days later, Rubiales addressed the incident at a federation general assembly, offering apologies but refusing to resign. In a joint statement released on August 25, the 23 players of the team initiated a strike, demanding the resignation of the federation’s president. “None of the players who signed this letter will continue to represent the national team if the current leadership remains,” they stated.
The day after this collective statement, FIFA initiated disciplinary proceedings against Luis Rubiales, who was subsequently suspended from his duties for an initial period of 90 days. On Wednesday, September 6, the French newspaper Le Parisien reported that the women’s team captain has now filed a complaint against Luis Rubiales, following a preliminary investigation by the Spanish prosecutor’s office on charges of “sexual assault.”
Reactions to the Case Since Jennifer Hermoso filed the complaint, many figures from the world of football have expressed their support for the Spanish player. Renowned players, coaches, and club officials have strongly condemned Rubiales’ behavior and called for justice for Hermoso. Some have even called for a thorough reform of football governance to prevent such incidents.
Women’s rights organizations and feminist movements have also supported Jennifer Hermoso’s action, urging Spanish authorities to conduct a comprehensive and impartial investigation into the case. They consider it essential to take concrete measures to combat all forms of violence against women, including in the sports environment.
What’s the Future for Spanish Women’s Football? The case of Jennifer Hermoso’s forced kiss has also raised questions about the environment of women’s football in Spain. Many are wondering about the future of the sport in the country and how players are treated and respected.
Calls have been made for improved working conditions and compensation for female players, as well as greater female representation in the governing bodies of Spanish football. Many believe that the time has come to address the inequalities and discriminations that persist in this field, allowing women’s football to fully develop and reach its true potential.
While awaiting further developments in the case, Jennifer Hermoso remains a symbol of courage and determination for all women fighting against sexist violence. Her actions have contributed to shedding light on the issues women face in sports and initiating a vital debate on respect and gender equality.
