Jenni Hermoso Files Complaint Over Luis Rubiales’ Unconsensual Kiss
Jenni Hermoso, a 33-year-old Spanish football player, has filed a legal complaint against the Spanish football federation president Luis Rubiales over an alleged unconsensual kiss. The incident occurred after Spain’s World Cup final win. Rubiales claims the kiss was mutual and consensual, but has been provisionally suspended by football’s world governing body Fifa.
The complaint means the 46-year-old Rubiales could face criminal charges. On 29 August, Spanish prosecutors opened a preliminary investigation into whether the incident amounts to a crime of sexual assault. The top criminal court said it was necessary to determine the legal significance of Hermoso’s statements, as she had made it clear that the kiss was not consensual.
The statement added that legal experts would contact Hermoso to offer her the option of legal action, giving her the chance to contact National Court prosecutors within 15 days for information about her rights as a victim of an alleged sexual assault should she wish to file a complaint. It is reported that Hermoso filed her complaint on Tuesday.
Rubiales, who prior to the kiss had been seen grabbing his crotch while celebrating Spain’s 1-0 win over England, has repeatedly refused to resign from his position. On Friday, Spain’s national sports tribunal (TAD) opened a misconduct case against him, ruling he had committed a “serious offence” by kissing Hermoso. However, the TAD stopped short of the “very serious offence” the government had requested which would have led to his suspension.
Some 81 Spain players, including all 23 World Cup winners, have said they will not play for the team again while Rubiales is in charge. They are due to play in Uefa Nations League qualifying later this month, with fixtures against Sweden and Switzerland on 22 and 26 September. On Tuesday, Spain’s World Cup-winning head coach Jorge Vilda – considered a close ally of Rubiales – was sacked, with Montse Tome named as his successor.
The incident between Rubiales and Hermoso has sparked a debate about consent and sexual assault in sport. It is a reminder that consent is not just about saying yes or no, but about making sure that both parties are comfortable and that there is mutual agreement. This case highlights the importance of understanding what constitutes sexual assault and how to ensure that everyone is respected and safe in any situation.
What Is Sexual Assault?
Sexual assault is any unwanted sexual contact or activity without consent. It can include anything from unwanted touching or kissing to rape or attempted rape. It is important to remember that consent must be given freely and without pressure or coercion.
It is also important to note that consent can be withdrawn at any time. If someone says no or stops responding, then it is important to respect their wishes and stop immediately. It is also important to remember that someone who is intoxicated or asleep cannot give consent.
How Can We Prevent Sexual Assault?
There are several steps we can take to prevent sexual assault. The first step is to create an environment where everyone feels safe and respected. This means making sure that everyone is aware of what constitutes consent and that it is respected in all situations.
It is also important to speak up if you see something that doesn’t seem right. If you see someone being harassed or pressured into something they don’t want to do, it is important to speak up and let them know that they don’t have to do it if they don’t want to.
Finally, it is important to be aware of your own behaviour and make sure that you are not crossing any boundaries or taking advantage of someone else. If you are unsure about something, it is always best to ask for consent before engaging in any kind of sexual activity.
Conclusion
The incident between Jenni Hermoso and Luis Rubiales has sparked a much-needed conversation about consent and sexual assault in sport. It is a reminder that consent is not just about saying yes or no, but about making sure that both parties are comfortable and that there is mutual agreement. It is also important to be aware of our own behaviour and make sure that we are not crossing any boundaries or taking advantage of someone else. By understanding what constitutes sexual assault and how to ensure that everyone is respected and safe in any situation, we can work together to create an environment where everyone feels safe and respected.