Former head of the Spanish Football Federation, Luis Rubiales will stand trial for a sexual assault misconduct after an unsolicited kiss for Women’s World Cup player Jenni Hermoso.
The kiss that was ‘unwanted’ by the Spanish player occurred last year against England and news of the situation spread globally.
Rubiales was forced to resign but has denied his actions being malicious. Spanish High Court judge deemed on Wednesday that he was also facing one charge of coercion.
The scandal overshadowed a momentous moment for the Spanish Women’s team, as it was their first ever world cup win.
The kiss was televised to billions, caused an uproar, and resurfaced the national debate on sexism within Spain.
Mr Rubiales claimed it was consensual and a ‘social assassination’ on part of the media. However, Ms Hermoso and her teammates said it was demeaning and uncomfortable.
The charge for coercion with be alongside former coach of the women’s team, Jorge Vilda, the sporting director, Albert Luque, and the federations head of marketing, Ruben Rivera.
If the trial succeeds, they could be subject to 18 months in jail. It will be held in Audiencia Nacional in Madrid.
The date has not been yet confirmed.