In a Madrid court, Spanish footballers Alexia Putellas and Irene Paredes shared their support for Jenni Hermoso, detailing the emotional turmoil she faced after being kissed by Luis Rubiales during the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup. The trial, which also includes charges against three individuals for alleged coercion, has captured widespread attention.
Testimony Highlights Emotional Impact of World Cup Incident on Jenni Hermoso
Testimony Highlights Emotional Impact of World Cup Incident on Jenni Hermoso
Teammates testify in court about the distress experienced by Spanish footballer following unwanted kiss from former football chief.
Spanish footballers Alexia Putellas and Irene Paredes provided compelling testimony in court on Thursday regarding the distress faced by their teammate Jenni Hermoso after an incident involving Luis Rubiales, the former president of the Royal Spanish Football Federation. Rubiales is currently on trial in Madrid, accused of sexually assaulting Hermoso and coercing her regarding the incident.
During their statements, both Putellas and Paredes articulated the emotional state Hermoso experienced after Rubiales allegedly kissed her on the lips during the medal ceremony at the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup in Australia. According to Putellas, Hermoso felt "overwhelmed" and was noticeably upset after the event. Paredes echoed these sentiments, explaining that Hermoso was “sad” and unable to enjoy what should have been a celebratory moment.
Putellas elaborated that Hermoso initially viewed the incident as a misunderstanding but later clarified her feelings after showing her teammates a video of the kiss. She was reportedly left confused and upset by Rubiales’ actions. On the return flight to Spain, Hermoso's distress was evident. "She started crying from exhaustion," Putellas recalled, indicating the heavy emotional toll the situation had taken on Hermoso.
The court heard further accounts about how the atmosphere on their return was affected by the incident. Paredes shared that she urged teammates to stop making jokes about the kiss, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation. Furthermore, during a team celebration trip to Ibiza, Hermoso remained visibly upset, despite the occasion's intended joy.
Testimony also included Hermoso being approached by Rubiales on the plane, where he supposedly insisted that she publicly deny having given him consent for the kiss. Hermoso expressed her frustration, stating she knew her own experience and did not require his explanation.
The trial has broader implications, as three associates of Rubiales face collusion charges, including Jorge Vilda, the World Cup-winning team coach. Allegations suggest that Vilda pressured Hermoso's brother into influencing her to publicly downplay the event.
In court, Hermoso described the encounter with Rubiales, highlighting her autonomy in personal interactions, stating, "a kiss on the lips is only given when I decide so." She conveyed feelings of abandonment by the federation during a time when she sought support.
Prosecutors are seeking a one-year prison sentence for Rubiales for sexual assault as well as a year-and-a-half for coercing Hermoso. Rubiales has consistently denied wrongdoing. The trial continues to draw significant public and media attention as it progresses.
