Jenni Hermoso files complaint over 'unsolicited kiss' at World Cup

Jenni Hermoso has filed a complaint with the prosecutor’s office over an “unsolicited kiss” by Spanish FA chief Luis Rubiales following the Women’s World Cup final.

The Spanish footballer is accusing him of sexual assault after she was kissed on the lips following Spain’s 1-0 victory over England on 20 August.

Hermoso has repeatedly said it was not consensual, but a defiant Rubiales has refused to resign.

The controversy has overshadowed Spain’s historic win.

Prosecutors said last week they were going to meet with Hermoso to give her the opportunity to present an accusation against Rubiales.

Officials added the accusation was made by Hermoso on Tuesday.

Rubiales has been suspended from his position at the top of Spanish football.

He was handed a provisional suspension from FIFA for 90 days last week, amid his refusal to step down.

In the wake of calls for his resignation, the 46-year-old issued a fresh defence in which he admitted he made “some obvious mistakes” which he sincerely regrets, but claimed there was no aggression or discomfort when the kiss occurred.

He said: “I repeat: with the consent of both parties, both in the affectionate hugs, as well as in the peak and subsequent farewell full of affectionate mutual gestures, that occurred on the medals delivery stage.”

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Hermoso, a 33-year-old forward, plays for Mexican club Pachuca.

She has also played for a number of top Spanish and European clubs, including Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain and Atletico Madrid.

It comes as the former head coach of the Spanish women’s team said he felt it was “unfair” for him to lose his job amid the fallout from the scandal.

Jorge Vilda was the only member of the women’s national team coaching staff not to resign in protest at the behaviour of Rubiales at the end of the final.

The Spanish football federation (RFEF) confirmed his dismissal on Tuesday afternoon.

Vilda was seen applauding Rubiales at an emergency RFEF general assembly when he announced on 25 August he would not resign over his actions in Sydney.

Concerns over Vilda’s coaching methods and regime were reported to have been a key factor in 15 Spain players refusing to play for the national team last year.

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