Spanish state prosecutors have filed a lawsuit against Luis Rubiales, the suspended president of the Spanish soccer federation, for sexual assault and coercion. The charges stem from an incident after the Women's World Cup final in Sydney, Australia, when Rubiales kissed player Jenni Hermoso without her consent. If found guilty, Rubiales could face a fine or a prison sentence of one to four years. Rubiales has refused to resign and is contesting the charges, sparking a debate in Spain about the need for greater respect for women in sports.
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Spain's national elections on Sunday left the country in political gridlock, with neither the right nor the left able to secure a majority. The Socialists, who finished in second place, were able to call on the predicted 31 seats of the left-wing Sumar, or Joining Forces alliance, and several smaller parties, giving them a combined total of 172 seats. This means that neither side has a clear path toward forging a new government, leaving the country in a state of political uncertainty with no clear majority.
Seven people have been arrested in Spain for racially abusing Real Madrid player Vinícius Júnior, with four of the suspects arrested in Madrid for allegedly hanging an effigy of the player off a highway bridge in January and the other three detained in Valencia for alleged abuse during a Spanish league match on Sunday. Real Madrid and the Spanish government have expressed their support for Vinícius, with Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez tweeting, “We will not tolerate racism in any form.” The seven suspects are currently in police custody and are awaiting trial.
Real Madrid star Vinícius Júnior was subjected to racist abuse during a match against Valencia on Sunday, prompting the club to issue a statement and promise a lifetime ban for those responsible. Valencia police have identified a fan who made racist gestures and are using footage to identify any others. Vinícius has faced racism throughout his time in Spain, and has expressed his frustration, while La Liga president Javier Tebas has criticized his response. The incident has sparked a larger conversation about racism in Spanish football and the need for the league and clubs to take a stronger stance.