The midfielder of Spain, Aitana Bonmatí, says that Luis Rubiales' condemnation for sexual aggression establishes a precedent in the future and hopes that it leads to changes for women inside and outside football.
Bonmatí was talking before the Nations League Party of Spain against England in Wembley on Wednesday, which is a revenge of the 2023 World Cup final that The red He won 1-0.
Last week, the former president of the Spanish Football Federation Rubiales was declared guilty to kiss by force to Bonmatí's teammate, Jenni Hermoso, at the medal ceremony after that match in Sydney.
The Superior Court of Spain established a fine of more than € 10,000 ($ 10,434.00) for the crime, but Rubiales will avoid fulfilling any prison time and was acquitted of a coercion charge.
“The prayer is correct and establishes a precedent for these situations,” said Ballon D'Or Bonmatí winner at a press conference on Tuesday.
“We are happy because in addition to doing things well in the field, we have supported our teammate and fought hard and has not been in vain.
“I hope this case makes changes in our country, in our football, to respect us better as soccer players. But it is also a global case. I don't just want to talk about players.
“This happens in other works. I hope this case helps anyone who is going through these things and I hope this helps respect women more.
“It has been difficult, but this makes us more champions because we do not win alone in the field, but also outside the field. And we continually fight for our rights, women's rights and for making changes in society.”
Beautiful will appeal the acquittal of coercion and, speaking earlier in the day, the coach of England, Sarina Wiegman, praised the “remarkable courage” of the striker, while reiterating his support for the Spanish team before facing them.
Bonmatí thanked Wiegman for his comments and said he hopes that Spain can follow England's example in women's football.
“England is an example, not only for the product in the countryside, but also what they do,” said the Barcelona player.
“The way they market and fill stadiums, not only the national team but also in the league here. Unite people.
“They took advantage of their moment after winning the euros [in 2022] And for me they are an example for us. “
England beat Spain on the way to winning the euros three years ago, but the result was invested when the two teams met in the World Cup final the following year in Australia.
Wednesday will be the first time that the teams are from that final, with Bonmatí aware that the lions will want to avenge that loss.
“I am aware of the importance of England's game and desire to overcome us,” he said. “Losing a World Cup final is not easy: it is a long trip and a lot of hard work. Maybe tomorrow they will be eager to take revenge.
“For us it is an opportunity to demonstrate that we are champions and, in addition, in a legendary historical stage like Wembley. Wembley's name only puts you chicken skin.
“It is a time to enjoy, not only for the stadium, but for the game, many people will be here and we hope we can enjoy and get the victory.”
Spain opened its defense of the Nations League with a 3-2 victory over Belgium in Group 3 League A, while England opened with a 1-1 draw against Portugal.
