A Kiss, a Conviction, and a Long Overdue Reckoning

The Luis Rubiales saga, culminating in his conviction for sexual assault against Jenni Hermoso, is more than just a scandal. It’s a stark reminder of the deeply ingrained sexism that continues to plague football and society at large. While the court’s decision is a step towards justice, it also exposes the complexities and limitations of navigating such cases in a world still grappling with issues of consent and power dynamics.

Rubiales’ defense that the kiss was consensual and a “moment of jubilation” is a tired and frankly insulting trope. It minimizes the experience of Hermoso, who unequivocally stated she felt “disrespected” and that the incident “tainted one of the happiest days of my life.” The judge rightly recognized that a kiss without consent is sexual assault, regardless of intent or context. This is a crucial message, especially in a sport where women have long battled for equality and respect.

However, the acquittal on the coercion charge raises concerns. While the court acknowledged Hermoso’s testimony, it seemingly failed to fully grasp the inherent power imbalance between a federation president and a player. The pressure Hermoso faced to downplay the incident, highlighted by her teammates’ testimonies, speaks volumes about the insidious nature of abuse of power.

This case has ignited a much-needed conversation about sexism in football. It has emboldened players to speak out, with England’s Alessia Russo expressing solidarity and highlighting the bravery of Hermoso and her teammates. The incident has also forced a critical examination of the Spanish federation’s culture and its treatment of women’s football.

While Rubiales faces a fine and a ban from contacting Hermoso, the fight is far from over. Both parties are appealing the verdict, prolonging the ordeal and delaying Hermoso’s ability to fully reclaim her World Cup triumph. However, this saga has already sparked a crucial shift. It has shown that women in football will no longer tolerate such behavior and that their voices will be heard.

The Rubiales case is a watershed moment. It is a reminder that consent is paramount, that power dynamics cannot be ignored, and that the fight for equality in football, and beyond, continues.