Luis Rubiales, the president of the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), is facing criticism and backlash after kissing Spanish football player Jenni Hermoso during the post-match celebrations of the FIFA Women’s World Cup. Spain emerged victorious in the final against the United Kingdom, securing the title in Sydney. Rubiales, who was present on stage alongside other FIFA officials, kissed every other Spanish player on the cheek after they received their gold medals. However, he kissed Hermoso on the lips, which sparked widespread condemnation.
Many people, both in Spain and around the world, have expressed their outrage at Rubiales’ actions. One post on the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, described Rubiales as a man with power over Hermoso who unilaterally decided to kiss her on the mouth in the middle of a stage. This act was seen as part of a culture where women are objectified and subjected to unwanted advances.
Some individuals have even labeled Rubiales’ behavior as sexual abuse and have called on FIFA to take action against him. They argue that women in sports face a power differential, objectification, harassment, and an absence of agency and power on a daily basis. This incident has only highlighted the ongoing issues faced by women in the sporting world.
Hermoso herself expressed her discomfort with the incident during an Instagram live session. She stated, “Hey, I didn’t like it, eh.” However, according to local media reports, the RFEF released a statement after Spain’s victory, quoting Hermoso as saying that the kiss was a “spontaneous mutual gesture.”
Videos and pictures circulating on social media also showed Rubiales holding hands with other players and kissing Spanish footballer Olga Carmona on her cheek as she celebrated Spain’s victory over England. Rubiales has defended his actions with Hermoso, describing it as a minor show of affection between two people.
The incident has sparked a larger conversation about consent, boundaries, and the treatment of women in sports. It remains to be seen whether FIFA will take any action in response to the backlash against Rubiales.
