Luis Rubiales, the former president of Spain’s football federation, has been fined €10,800 (£8,942) after being found guilty of sexual assault for kissing player Jenni Hermoso during the 2023 World Cup celebrations.
The kiss occurred after Spain’s victory over England, when Rubiales kissed Hermoso on the lips without her consent.
While Rubiales was acquitted of trying to coerce Hermoso into publicly claiming the kiss was consensual, the court imposed additional restrictions, including a one-year ban from contacting or approaching Hermoso within 200 meters.
Three individuals, including World Cup coach Jorge Vilda and two other former RFEF officials, were cleared of charges related to coercion.
Rubiales has expressed his intention to appeal the decision.
Hermoso, who testified that the kiss “stained one of the happiest days of my life,” maintained that she had not given permission for the kiss.
The incident sparked widespread protests, contributing to a larger movement against sexism in Spanish women’s football.
Rubiales resigned in September 2023 following public pressure and a FIFA suspension.