The prosecutor responsible for the case indicated today, Friday, that "the former president of the Spanish Football Federation, Luis Rubiales, denied allegations of sexual assault and coercion during a preliminary hearing before a court, following a complaint by player Jenni Hermoso regarding a kiss she claimed she was forced into." The prosecutor's office stated in a release that "a removal order was issued against Rubiales, requiring him to stay 500 meters away from Hermoso."
Additionally, 39 Spanish players released a statement saying they still do not feel safe while playing for the national football team. The players called for further changes in the federation, but did not clarify whether they would continue to boycott playing for the national team. The group of 39 players stated, "The changes mentioned for the federation are based on not tolerating individuals who, through their roles within the federation, have incited, concealed, or dissuaded actions that undermine the dignity of women."
Furthermore, the statement added, "The changes that have occurred so far are insufficient for the players to feel they are in a safe environment." Earlier this month, the Spanish Attorney General Marta Durántez Gil filed a "complaint with the Supreme Court against Rubiales for sexual assault and coercion due to the kiss on player Jenni Hermoso's lips against her will."
