An investigation into former Spanish Football Federation president Luis Rubiales has been opened by a Spanish high court judge, with police in Sydney saying they are willing to assist Spanish authorities.
Last week, Spain’s forward Jenni Hermoso filed a legal complaint over Rubiales kissing her on the lips after her nation’s win at the Women’s World Cup. She says the kiss was not consensual.
Initially calling critics of the kiss “idiots and stupid people”, Rubiales was provisionally suspended by FIFA over the controversy. He maintains his claim that the kiss was “mutual” and “consensual”.
The globally scrutinised Rubiales received many calls for resignation following the incident as well, and officially handed in his resignation as president of the Spanish football federation (RFEF) and vice president of the Union of European Football Association (UEFA) this week– nearly a month after the incident.
On behalf of Jenni Hermoso, Prosecutor Marta Durantez Gil filed a complaint last week with Spain’s high court against Rubiales for sexual assault and coercion. Judge Francisco de Jorge of the National Court has accepted the complaint, and a magistrate will be assigned to lead an investigation. This will either conclude in a recommendation for the case to go to trial or be dismissed.
Under Spanish law, a sexual assault charge could see Rubiales receive punishment ranging from a fine to four years in prison.
In a statement posted to social media on 25 August, Hermoso said she felt disrespected and vulnerable after Rubiales’ actions.
“I feel the need to report this incident because I believe no person, in any work, sports or social setting should be a victim of these types of non-consensual behaviours. I felt vulnerable and a victim of an impulsive-driven, sexist, out-of-place act, without any consent on my part,” she wrote.
On Monday, New South Wales police said they were ready to assist Spanish authorities if a report was lodged.
“A report has not been referred to NSW police; however, if received, officers will liaise with international authorities and assist where required,” a police spokesperson said.