Rubiales Case Trial to Commence Shortly

The trial for the high-profile “Rubiales Case” is set to begin on February 3rd. Former Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) president Luis Rubiales faces charges of sexual assault and coercion against player Jenni Hermoso. The proceedings, expected to last 13 days, will open with Hermoso’s testimony as she travels from Mexico to Spain to appear in court.

The case stems from an incident following Spain’s 2023 Women’s World Cup victory, when Rubiales kissed Hermoso without consent. Prosecutors are seeking a 2.5-year prison sentence for Rubiales, as well as a ban from working in football. Additional defendants include former women’s national team coach Jorge Vilda, ex-sporting director Albert Luque, and marketing head Rubén Rivera, who face coercion charges.

Up to 27 witnesses are scheduled to testify, including several of Hermoso’s national team teammates. Current men’s and women’s national team coaches Luis de la Fuente and Montse Tomé will also appear as witnesses. The accused parties will be the last to give statements, beginning February 12th.

The high-profile nature of the case has necessitated moving the trial to a larger venue to accommodate media coverage. Once proceedings conclude, it may take several weeks for Judge José Manuel Clemente to issue a verdict. Both the prosecution and defense will have the option to appeal the ruling if desired.