Spanish judge confirms Rubiales will stand trial for kiss on player after Women’s World Cup final
Associated PressMAY 2024
Spain's Ex-Soccer Chief to Stand Trial for Kissing Player
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The Spin
Narrative A
While Rubiales' kiss was inappropriate, he's far from a criminal and more than two years in prison would be ridiculously disproportionate. In the era of #MeToo, punishing Rubiales so harshly for a mild offense may have the unintended effect of validating those who feel the movement has gone too far, undermining the country's progress in women's rights.
Narrative B
This case is a much-needed reckoning for sexism and women's rights in Spain. Sexual harassment like this unfortunately happens far too often. Rubiales must face the consequences of his actions, and hopefully this can serve as a lesson for men in the future that non-consensual acts like this are unwanted and criminal.