The president of the Spanish football federation, Luis Rubiales, has come in for criticism after he kissed forward Jenni Hermoso on the lips following Spain’s 1-0 victory over England in the World Cup final in Sydney on Sunday night.
The kiss – delivered on stage during the official post-match ceremony – was captured on camera and the vision prompted outrage on social media.
Hermoso said on a live stream afterwards she “did not enjoy that”.
“It was a totally spontaneous mutual gesture because of the immense joy that winning a World Cup brings,” said Hermoso, in comments given to AFP by the Spanish federation.
“The president and I have a great relationship, his behaviour with all of us has been outstanding and it was a natural gesture of affection and gratitude.”
Rubiales reportedly told Radio Marca it was an “unimportant gesture of affection” and rejected suggestions it was inappropriate.
On social media, the Spanish TV presenter Claudya Carolina said Rubiales’ actions were “unpresentable” and “excessive”.
Video from the celebrations also shows Rubiales kissing other players on the cheeks and embracing them.
Spain’s triumph in the Women’s World Cup came despite a long period of instability.
