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Real Madrid Addresses Controversy Ahead of Copa del Rey Final
Real Madrid has publicly stated that they did not consider boycotting the upcoming Copa del Rey final, despite expressing strong disapproval of what they termed ‘unacceptable’ remarks made by officials. This reaction follows an emotional press conference from match referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea, who broke down while discussing the alleged bias highlighted by Real Madrid TV.
De Burgos Bengoetxea is set to officiate the crucial fixture between Real Madrid and Barcelona. During the press conference held on Friday, he was visibly moved when questioned about various videos released by Real Madrid’s own media channel. These videos pointed out that under De Burgos Bengoetxea’s oversight, Real Madrid has won only 64% of their matches compared to Barcelona’s 81% winning rate.
In response to his emotional display, Real Madrid canceled their media obligations and training sessions ahead of the final but later reaffirmed their commitment to participate in the match. The club issued a formal statement clarifying, “In light of the rumors that have emerged in recent hours, Real Madrid CF announces that our team has never considered withdrawing from tomorrow’s final.”
The club emphasized the significance of the event, stating, “Our club understands that the unfortunate and inappropriate statements made by the referees designated for this match cannot taint a sporting event of global significance that will be watched by hundreds of millions of people, and out of respect for all the fans who are planning to travel to Seville.” Real Madrid advocates for the values emblematic of football to prevail, despite the ongoing tensions between the club and officiating bodies.
This incident appears to be the continuation of a long-standing feud between Real Madrid and Spanish referees. Earlier in the season, Real Madrid lodged a formal complaint against the officiating body, which led LaLiga president Javier Tebas to label the situation as indicative of the club “losing their minds.” The scrutiny over referees has escalated, resulting in widespread concern about the treatment of officials in light of recent controversies.
Emotional Plea from De Burgos Bengoetxea
Addressing the media, a tearful De Burgos Bengoetxea said, “We are talking a lot about Real Madrid TV videos and it is true that it is a lot of media attention about it, but I am going to give you a few samples of things that are happening to colleagues…” He poignantly illustrated the personal toll such scrutiny takes on referees, mentioning how children can suffer from the repercussions of their parents’ professions.
He continued, “When your child goes to school and is told their father is a thief by other kids, that’s really tough,” emphasizing the need for reflection on the broader implications of criticism directed at officiating in football.
After the tearful interview, the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) announced via social media that Real Madrid would not hold a press conference or training session on the day before the Copa del Rey final. Additionally, the video assistant referee (VAR) for the match, Pablo Gonzalez Fuertes, indicated that officials are contemplating more direct actions to address the ongoing pressure they face.
Real Madrid Calls for Action from RFEF
Following De Burgos Bengoetxea’s comments, a statement from Real Madrid deemed the timing and nature of the officials’ remarks before such a significant match as unacceptable. The club accused the referees of demonstrating apparent animosity towards them, particularly regarding the media focus on Real Madrid TV’s video criticisms.
Real Madrid’s communication underscored the alarming tone of the comments made by the referees and called for action from the RFEF to uphold the integrity and prestige of the officiating body. “Given the seriousness of what happened, Real Madrid hopes that those responsible for the RFEF and the refereeing body will act accordingly, adopting the necessary measures to defend the prestige of the institutions they represent,” the statement concluded.
The tension between Real Madrid and the refereeing community has undoubtedly intensified, particularly after incidents involving key player Jude Bellingham and questionable officiating decisions in recent matches. As the final approaches, all eyes will be on how the events unfold, both on the pitch and in the officiating booth.
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