A pivotal and problematic moment in women’s football history is set to be explored in an upcoming Netflix documentary. The scandal, known as Spain’s World Cup kissing scandal, caused a global uproar and sparked an activist movement after a former FIFA boss allegedly kissed a winning player without her consent. Executive producers Javier Martínez and Luis Miguel Calvo have described the documentary as a story of resilience, passion, and triumph in the face of adversity, highlighting the fight for equality in sports and society.
The scandal unfolded after Spain defeated England in the World Cup final, and the former president of the Royal Spanish Football Association, Luis Rubiales, was accused of being inappropriately affectionate towards players while handing out medals. The controversy intensified when he kissed player Jennifer Hermoso on the lips without her consent, leading to a public outcry and a media firestorm.
Despite denying the allegations and refusing to take accountability for his actions, Rubiales eventually stepped down from his positions in football administration and was banned from the sport for three years by FIFA. The scandal prompted a social media movement with the hashtag #SeAcabó, meaning “it’s over” in English, which gained widespread attention and support from athletes around the world.
The upcoming documentary, titled “It’s All Over: The Kiss That Changed Spanish Football,” will provide a platform for the players to share their experiences and perspectives on the scandal. Interviews with players such as Jennifer Hermoso, Alexia Putellas, and Irene Paredes will offer insight into the impact of the event on women’s sports and the broader conversation about abuse and bullying in the industry.
Directed by Joanna Pardos, the documentary aims to explore the personal testimonies of the players and their journey towards victory in the face of adversity. It is described as a story of unity, friendship, and the significance of teamwork in achieving success both on and off the field. The film will be released on Netflix on 1 November, with a trailer already available for viewing.
Overall, “It’s All Over: The Kiss That Changed Spanish Football” promises to shed light on an important moment in sports history and celebrate the resilience and determination of the women who fought for equality and recognition in the industry.
