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Real Madrid’s Standoff with Spanish Referees Escalates
Real Madrid has expressed strong discontent regarding recent comments made by referees, labeling them as “unacceptable.” The club’s statement highlighted concern over what they perceive as a coordinated effort to undermine their reputation, stemming from protests that have drawn attention to videos aired by Real Madrid TV. The club suggested that these media efforts were intentionally timed to coincide with their matches, indicating a hostile attitude from referees towards them.
In light of these issues, Real Madrid has called for decisive action from the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) and the refereeing authority to uphold the integrity of the institutions involved. The club previously articulated its frustrations in a formal letter to the RFEF and Spain’s High Council for Sports, claiming that Spanish officiating had become “rigged” and “completely discredited” following a disappointing February match against Espanyol.
During a recent press conference, referee De Burgos Bengoetxea addressed the criticisms, asserting that the negative environment surrounding refereeing has impacted not just professional football, but also grassroots levels of the sport. He urged for collective reflection on the future direction of football, emphasizing the need for a supportive atmosphere for everyone involved in the game.
VAR official Fuertes echoed these sentiments, asserting that significant measures would soon be implemented in response to ongoing challenges. He indicated that the current state of affairs cannot continue, suggesting a forthcoming change aimed at addressing the growing pressure on referees.
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick also supported the call for reform when he spoke to the media, asserting that football should remain a sport and that protecting all participants is of utmost importance. Flick noted that while emotional decisions are part of the game, the fallout shouldn’t linger beyond the match, calling for a more constructive approach after games.
Following Real Madrid’s letter of complaint earlier this year, La Liga president Javier Tebas publicly dismissed their claims, suggesting that the club had “lost their head.” Meanwhile, the RFEF condemned the “repulsive” treatment directed at referee Jose Luis Munuera Montero after he issued a red card to Real Madrid’s Jude Bellingham during a match against Osasuna, further highlighting the tensions entwined within Spanish football officiating.
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