Luis Rubiales: Spanish FA President Asks for Forgiveness For Appearing to Kiss Jenni Hermoso

Luis Rubiales, the President of the Spanish Football Federation, has generated a wave of controversy due to his actions involving a kiss on the lips to forward Jenni Hermoso. The incident has sparked global outrage and cast a shadow over Spain's victory in the Women's World Cup.

Following Spain's triumph in the Women's World Cup on Sunday, August 20, Rubiales found himself in a controversial situation. During the presentation ceremony, he was observed planting kisses on several players from the Spain Women's team.

Spain secured victory in the final by defeating England 1-0, with Olga Carmona netting the sole goal in the 29th minute.

Subsequent to the incident, Rubiales faced widespread criticism from around the world. Spain's Minister of Equality, Irene Montero, characterized the action as a form of 'violence,' stating, "We must not regard non-consensual kissing as a trivial matter," as reported by the BBC.

Jenni Hermoso also addressed the incident on her Instagram account, expressing her discomfort with the kiss.

A subsequent statement was issued by Spain's all-time leading goal scorer, Hermoso, via the Spanish Football Federation. She stated, "It was a completely spontaneous and mutual gesture, borne out of the immense joy that accompanies a World Cup victory," explaining her perspective on the matter.

Facing global backlash within barely 24 hours of the incident, Rubiales found himself compelled to respond. A video was released on the following Monday, featuring a lengthy apology from the Federation President.

In a video shared on Twitter by @elchiringuitotv, Rubiales humbly sought forgiveness, admitting, "Undoubtedly, I made a mistake, and I must acknowledge it." He further elaborated, "The gesture was not driven by ill intentions; rather, it was a product of exuberance in the moment. While we perceived it as natural here, it has generated a considerable commotion beyond these borders."