Brother of Spanish Star Hermoso Reveals Courtroom Threats Linked to Rubiales Controversy

On Wednesday, Rafael Hermoso, the brother of Jenni Hermoso, testified in the trial of Luis Rubiales, the former head of Spain’s football federation, asserting that his sister was threatened with “consequences” if she failed to minimise the incident surrounding the now-infamous kiss.

Rubiales incited global outrage after kissing Hermoso shortly after she contributed to Spain’s victory over England in the 2023 Women’s World Cup final held in Australia.

This scandal led to Rubiales resigning in disgrace and has positioned Hermoso as a symbol in the fight against macho culture and sexism within the sporting arena.

Rafael Hermoso revealed that Jorge Vilda, the former coach of the women’s national team, implored him during their flight back to Spain to persuade his sister to record a video with Rubiales, indicating that she was unbothered by the kiss.

According to Rafael, Vilda “stated that my sister was of a certain age and had already established her career, suggesting that if she cooperated, everything would turn out well for her.” He shared this testimony at the National Court located on the outskirts of Madrid.

“However, he warned that if she chose not to cooperate, the outcome was uncertain,” he continued.

“Mr Vilda’s last words to me were a reminder to consider the personal and professional repercussions this situation could have for my sister,” he added.

Prosecutors are seeking a sentence of two and a half years’ imprisonment for Rubiales: one year for sexual assault related to the forced kiss and 18 months for allegedly pressuring Hermoso, 34, to minimise the incident.

Rubiales has characterised the kiss as a harmless “peck between friends celebrating” and has denied any allegations of coercion. He is set to testify on February 12th.

Alongside Rubiales, Vilda and two former officials of the federation, Ruben Rivera and Albert Luque, are also on trial, facing similar accusations of attempting to coerce Hermoso, with prosecutors pursuing 18 months’ imprisonment for them as well.

Jenni’s teammate, Misa Rodriguez, testified that the striker was “under immense pressure” and “broke down in tears” shortly after Rubiales spoke with her on the plane.

“At no point did she indicate to us that the kiss was consensual,” the goalkeeper stated.