The National Court welcomed Jennifer Hermoso early in the morning, with a statement expected around 9:50 a.m. The case centers on accusations against Luis Rubiales, the former president of the Royal Spanish Football Federation, including sexual assault and coercion stemming from a kiss exchanged with the Spain women’s team star during the World Cup victory celebration in Australia and New Zealand.
Hermoso arrived at the courthouse accompanied by her attorney and a spokesperson, with another lawyer present to observe the proceedings. After walking along the pedestrian pathway toward the entrance, she spoke briefly with supporters before entering without addressing the media gathered outside.
It is noted that Francisco de Jorge, head of the Central Instruction Court No. 1, had initially summoned Hermoso to testify as a witness on November 28. Two defense attorneys, including Rubiales himself, requested a postponement that day due to other ongoing judicial matters.
The actor was questioned by the Chief Prosecutor of the National Court, Marta Durántez, ahead of the formal trial. He later said that the situation was handled without the respect he expected, explaining that he felt exposed to something he never sought or intended to be part of.
In a statement presented by Telecinco, Hermoso described the moment she was kissed after Spain secured the Women’s World Cup. She recalled embracing Rubiales and remarking that they had achieved something remarkable. Rubiales reportedly congratulated the team with the words that the World Cup victory was achieved because of their efforts.
“I did not anticipate this”
Hermoso recalled that she did not anticipate the kiss and that she did not hear the audience after the moment. She described standing on the stage with her teammates as surprises unfolded. The victory was a historic milestone achieved after years of hard work and sacrifice.
The footballer noted that she could not foresee a situation like this at the time and that she relied on friends and teammates for support. She emphasized that the celebration was a collective achievement rooted in the team’s commitment and resilience rather than any individual act.
She also told investigators that she spoke with teammates Alexia Putellas and Irene Paredes after the incident, expressing her confusion and the impact of the moment on her personally and professionally.
A display of affection under scrutiny
Rubiales contended before the judge that the kiss was a spontaneous display of affection that occurred naturally in a moment watched by millions. He argued it happened with mutual consent during a celebratory moment.
Hermoso’s legal team countered that the kiss was not a typical celebration and that it could be interpreted as inappropriate under the circumstances. They asserted that the act was not requested or consented to in a manner that would justify its recurrence, and they described the event as a highly unusual and extraordinary moment.
When pressed about the nature of consent, Rubiales acknowledged the kiss and explained that Hermoso had laughed afterward. He described her reaction as light-hearted and noted she had responded to the moment in a way that suggested no lasting animosity or intent to pursue formal repercussions.