How has Jenni Hermoso reacted to Spanish football federation president Luis Rubiales kiss?

Whilst the Lionesses were left reeling after losing the FIFA Women’s World Cup final, their opponents Spain were of course elated. However, their medal presentation attracted more than a little controversy when Luis Rubiales (the president of the Spanish football federation), kissed Spain’s forward Jenni Hermoso on the lips. 

Reuters reported that “Acting Culture and Sports Minister Miquel Iceta said on Monday on RNE radio the kiss was unacceptable and asked Rubiales to give an explanation and apologise.” Reuters also said that “Hermoso was heard telling teammates afterward in the locker room she “didn’t like it” in a video posted on Instagram and YouTube by El mundo newspaper and other media outlets.”

Former England International Casey Stoney MBE took to X to say “Would he kiss a male player like this? This is NOT ok.” According to ESPN, “Spain forward Jenni Hermoso has dismissed Spanish football federation (RFEF) president Luis Rubiales’ kiss during the post-World Cup final medal presentation as a ‘spontaneous gesture’ blaming ‘the emotion of the moment.”

ESPN also reported that Jenni Hermoso told the news agency EFE “The ‘presi’ and I have a great relationship. His behaviour with us has been a ‘10’ (out of 10). It was a natural gesture of affection and gratitude… We’ve won a World Cup and we won’t get away from what’s important.”

As well as Jenni Hermoso having to contend with the ‘kiss,’ Spain’s captain Olga Carmona was tragically told that her father had died after the final had ended. Olga revealed on X that “I know you have been watching me tonight and that you are proud of me. Rest in peace dad.” She also said that “And without knowing it, I had my star before the game started. I know that you have given me the strength to achieve something unique.”