Spain's High Court Upholds Verdict Against Rubiales in Sexual Assault Case

In a significant decision, Spain's High Court upheld a ruling against former soccer federation president Luis Rubiales, criminalizing his unsolicited kiss on the lips of national team player Jenni Hermoso during the 2023 World Cup medal ceremony in Sydney.

The court maintained Rubiales' conviction despite multiple appeals and rejected calls for a retrial while dismissing coercion charges against him and three co-defendants. The court's decision against Rubiales, who claimed his actions were spurred by overwhelming emotion, has intensified discussions about sexism in Spain and fueled the 'Me Too' movement locally.

Prosecutors originally sought a prison sentence of 2-1/2 years, which was not upheld. The decision highlights the court's view that Rubiales should have exercised restraint, evidenced by his composed interactions with others during the medal ceremony.

(With inputs from agencies.)