Luis Rubiales, the former president of the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), who was convicted of sexual assault in February, was attacked by his uncle with eggs during a book event in Madrid. This incident occurred while Rubiales was promoting his new book, “Matar a Rubiales,” which recounts his perspective on recent events. The controversy surrounding him intensified when he kissed national team player Jenni Hermoso without her consent during celebrations of Spain’s victory at the 2023 Women’s World Cup. The unwanted kiss prompted widespread outrage across Spain, highlighting issues of sexism and resulting in the women’s national team boycotting international matches.
Video footage captured Rubiales’ uncle hurling three eggs at him before being restrained by attendees; it appeared that two of the eggs struck their target. Rubiales later confirmed to Radio Marca that the egg-thrower was indeed his uncle and described him as a “troublemaker.” He recounted his reaction upon seeing his uncle approach with the eggs, fearing he could be wielding a weapon, which led him to charge at the attacker. “I was lucky they stopped me,” he stated, expressing that he couldn’t be sure of what his uncle was holding.
Rubiales was convicted of sexually assaulting Hermoso on February 20 following a high-profile trial during which she described feeling “belittled” and stated that the kiss overshadowed one of her life’s happiest moments. Although he resigned as RFEF president three weeks post-incident, he initially dismissed the allegations, claiming he was a victim of a “witch hunt” instigated by “fake feminists.” Hermoso has continuously insisted that the kiss was non-consensual.
As part of his sentencing, Rubiales was fined €10,000 (around $10,400) and is barred from approaching or contacting Hermoso for a year. FIFA has imposed a three-year ban on him from football, set to end in 2026. While he attempted to persuade Hermoso to consider the kiss consensual, he was acquitted of coercion. Additionally, three former federation members, including the ex-women’s national team coach Jorge Vilda, also avoided penal consequences.
Fan Take: This news is crucial for soccer fans as it underscores the ongoing struggle for respect and equality in the sport, reflecting broader societal issues. The case could serve as a pivotal moment for the sport’s governing bodies to reinforce a culture of zero tolerance for misconduct, thereby influencing future generations of players and fans alike.
