Rubiales testified confidently in Madrid's National Court, asserting that Hermoso's interaction during the medal ceremony indicated consent for the kiss, which he described as a spontaneous act of affection to celebrate their victory. He stated that they embraced and celebrated the moment together, with Hermoso "pressing him by the waist" before he asked for permission to kiss her.
Despite his defense, Hermoso has firmly denied giving consent for the kiss, describing it as a violation that tarnished one of the happiest moments of her life. Her testimony outlined the emotional trauma and threats she faced post-incident, including needing to relocate her family for their safety.
Rubiales acknowledged making a misstep but vehemently denied any intentions of wrongdoing, highlighting the overwhelming media scrutiny that has followed the event. Additionally, he has faced repercussions from both FIFA and prosecutors, which have led to his resignation and the need for multiple legal defenses amid the continuing fallout from the incident.
As the trial progresses, key figures from the RFEF, including coaches and associates, are also being scrutinized for their potential roles in the incident, with allegations of pressuring Hermoso to downplay the events for public relations purposes. The trial is ongoing, with prosecutors seeking a two-and-a-half-year prison sentence for Rubiales while wider discussions about sexism within sports institutions gain traction.
Despite his defense, Hermoso has firmly denied giving consent for the kiss, describing it as a violation that tarnished one of the happiest moments of her life. Her testimony outlined the emotional trauma and threats she faced post-incident, including needing to relocate her family for their safety.
Rubiales acknowledged making a misstep but vehemently denied any intentions of wrongdoing, highlighting the overwhelming media scrutiny that has followed the event. Additionally, he has faced repercussions from both FIFA and prosecutors, which have led to his resignation and the need for multiple legal defenses amid the continuing fallout from the incident.
As the trial progresses, key figures from the RFEF, including coaches and associates, are also being scrutinized for their potential roles in the incident, with allegations of pressuring Hermoso to downplay the events for public relations purposes. The trial is ongoing, with prosecutors seeking a two-and-a-half-year prison sentence for Rubiales while wider discussions about sexism within sports institutions gain traction.
