New trial sought for convicted ex-Spanish boss Luis Rubiales over World Cup kiss
Prosecutors are asking for the retrial of former Spanish football president Luis Rubiales, saying the judge incorrectly kept some evidence from the court.
Rubiales was found guilty of sexual assault and fined more than $17,000 for the unconsented kiss on player Jenni Hermoso after the 2023 Women's World Cup final.
He and three other defendants — federation officials — were cleared of coercion charges they faced for allegedly trying to convince Hermoso to downplay the kiss that sparked outrage in Spain and marred the celebrations of its first Women’s World Cup trophy.
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Luis Rubiales kisses Jennifer Hermoso during the medal ceremony. Getty
Prosecutors had asked for a two-and-a-half year prison sentence for Rubiales on the sexual assault and coercion charges. He denied wrongdoing.
Prosecutors appealed on the grounds that the case judge incorrectly did not allow some evidence to be introduced and some questions also were improperly denied.
Prosecutors said the judge was disrespectful and called for a new judge to oversee a new trial.
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Hermoso said the guilty verdict for Rubiales set an “important precedent” for women’s rights.
Spain’s National Court also prohibited Rubiales from getting within 200 metres of Hermoso or communicating with her for a year.
