How a kiss changed the world
And leads to 2.5 years in prison and a fine of 50 thousand euros
It should have been a historic moment: the very first World Cup victory of the Spanish women's football team in 2023. The match and especially the medal ceremony afterwards will certainly go down in history, but for the wrong reason. The only thing everyone could talk about was that one kiss. President of the Spanish Football Federation Luis Rubiales kissed footballer Jennifer Hermoso unsolicited on the mouth. Netflix is now coming out with a documentary: ‘It’s All Over: The Kiss That Changed Spanish Football’.
Unwanted kiss
After the Spanish women won 1-0 against England, Rubiales handed out the medals. But he couldn't contain his joy. He was quite hands-on with several players and kissed Hermoso full on the mouth. Although she was visibly upset, the ceremony continued. Only afterwards did it sink in what had actually happened. In an Instagram livestream later that day, Hermoso said she was not happy at all about the kiss. The video went viral, just like the hashtag #SeAcabó which means ‘it’s over’. Several players announced they would no longer play for the national team as long as there were no changes in leadership. Rubiales was suspended by FIFA and eventually stepped down as president of the Spanish Football Federation and as vice president of the executive committee of the Union of European Football Associations due to the ongoing pressure.
Players speak out
More than a year later, Netflix is coming out with a documentary. Hermoso herself, as well as teammates like Alèxia Putellas, Irene Paredes, and Aitana Bonmatí share their stories. They talk about that fateful day, but also about the period afterwards and the online movement that arose as a result. For several players, it is the first time they are speaking about it. The documentary makers provide an even broader picture by also looking at the preparations for the World Cup and the sacrifices the players have made for the sport. The story is told from the first-person perspective, from the women who experienced it. According to creators Javier Martínez and Luis Miguel Calvo, the documentary represents a milestone in the fight for equality in sports and society.”
The case is not over yet
While the players talk about the aftermath of the kiss, the case against Rubiales is still ongoing. The Spanish Public Prosecutor's Office is demanding a prison sentence of 2.5 years and compensation for Hermoso of 50 thousand euros for sexual aggression and coercion. From February 3 to 19, 2025, Rubiales will have to appear in court in Madrid.
‘It’s All Over: The Kiss That Changed Spanish Football’ will be available on Netflix starting November 1.
