Spanish footballer Jenni Hermoso has announced plans to appeal the court verdict concerning former Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) President Luis Rubiales, following his conviction for sexual assault. The case, which has garnered international attention, stemmed from an incident during the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup final when Rubiales forcibly kissed Hermoso during the medal ceremony. The non-consensual act sparked widespread outrage and ignited discussions on consent, gender equality, and the treatment of female athletes.

A Spanish court found Rubiales guilty of sexual assault and sentenced him to pay a €10,800 fine. In addition, he was issued a one-year restraining order, prohibiting him from coming within 200 meters of Hermoso. However, the court acquitted him of coercion charges, a decision that has left Hermoso and her legal team dissatisfied. The coercion charge was linked to accusations that Rubiales and his associates pressured Hermoso and her family to publicly support him and downplay the incident in the aftermath.

Hermoso's lawyers have expressed their discontent with the court's ruling, particularly the decision to clear Rubiales of coercion. They argue that the pressure exerted on Hermoso in the days following the incident, including alleged attempts by Rubiales' allies to manipulate the narrative in his favor, should have been sufficient grounds for a conviction on coercion charges. The legal team has stated its intention to challenge this aspect of the ruling in higher courts, emphasizing that justice has not been fully served.

Despite being found guilty of sexual assault, Rubiales has denied any wrongdoing and has announced that he will also be appealing his conviction. Throughout the legal proceedings, he has maintained that the kiss was consensual and has portrayed himself as the victim of a politically motivated attack. His defense team has argued that the verdict was unfair and intends to contest the ruling.

The case has had a profound impact on Spanish and international football. It led to Rubiales’ resignation as RFEF president and triggered significant reforms within Spanish football governance. The incident also fueled the #SeAcabó ("It's Over") movement, which called for greater protections and respect for female athletes. Many prominent figures in women's sports have voiced their support for Hermoso, viewing her case as a landmark moment in the fight for gender equality in football.

As Hermoso prepares to appeal the ruling, the case remains a focal point in the ongoing conversation about power dynamics, consent, and accountability in sports. Both legal teams are now preparing for the next phase of the legal battle, ensuring that this issue will continue to be a topic of discussion in the months to come.