Despite Luis Rubiales’ denial of wrongdoing for his unsolicited kiss of Jenni Hermoso, a wave of support is forming for Hermoso.
During Spain’s celebration of its World Cup win, Rubiales, president of the Spanish soccer federation (RFEF) kissed Hermoso on the lips. Rubiales has said it was consensual, which Hermoso denies.
Now several more in the soccer community are chiming in to offer support for Hermoso.
“Gotham FC stands with Jenni Hermoso and the Spanish Women’s National Team players. We celebrate their spectacular play and monumental achievement of winning the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup,” NJ/NY Gotham FC said in a statement. “Mr. Rubiales has tainted and overshadowed the Spanish Women’s National Team’s moment by his unacceptable conduct. We condemn him and the inaction of those in power who fail to hold him accountable. We join the global soccer community in using our voice to help end abuse in the women’s game.”
— NJ/NY Gotham FC (@GothamFC) August 26, 2023
Spain defeated England, 1-0, in the World Cup final. The English national team issued a statement condemning Hermoso.
“Unacceptable actions allowed to happen by a sexist and patriarchal organisation. Abuse is abuse and we have all seen the truth,” the statement read. “The behaviour of those who think they are invincible must not be tolerated and people shouldn’t need convincing to take action against any form of harassment. We stand with you, Jenni Hermoso and all players of the Spanish team.”
Christen Press, the USWNT veteran and Angel FC star, offered a terse, but impactful statement.
“Women should not have to win to have our voices heard,” Press wrote on X.