Restraining order imposed on ex-Spain football boss as he testifies in assault probe over kiss
- Order stops Luis Rubiales from contacting Jenni Hermoso or coming within 200 metres (660 feet) of her as he’s investigated for sexual assault after kissing her
- The incident, which occurred at the medal ceremony after Spain’s women’s team won the World Cup, has triggered a furore over sexism and prompted protests
Spain’s High Court on Friday imposed a restraining order to prevent former soccer chief Luis Rubiales approaching national team player Jenni Hermoso, as he appeared in court to be investigated for sexual assault for kissing her on the lips.
The incident, which occurred at the medal ceremony after Spain’s women’s team won the World Cup in Sydney, Australia, on August 20, has triggered a furore over sexism in Spanish sport and society and prompted protests similar to the “Me Too” movement.
Rubiales, 46, insists the kiss was consensual, while Hermoso says it was forced on her.
The order prevents Rubiales trying to contact Hermoso or coming within 200 metres (660 feet) of her, according to a court statement. Judge Francisco de Jorge rejected a request by the prosecution that Rubiales should report to the court every two weeks.
Dressed in a black suit over a white shirt, Rubiales left the High Court in Madrid with his lawyer Olga Tubau following a closed-door investigative hearing that lasted about an hour. He did not speak to the media waiting outside.
During the testimony, Rubiales denied the accusations, according to a statement by the prosecutor’s office.
