Former Spanish football federation chief Luis Rubiales said Tuesday that he asked Women’s World Cup winner Jennifer Hermoso for permission before kissing her during the on-field medal ceremony for Spain’s victory in 2023.

Luis Rubiales and the other three defendants accused of trying to downplay the kiss by the former president of the Spanish soccer federation on player Jenni Hermoso at the 2023 Women’s World Cup final presentation ceremony are set to testify before a judge on Tuesday.

The former head of Spanish football also said that he asked the player if he could kiss her before the incident after the 2023 final.