Real Madrid has reportedly cancelled pre-final activities like open training, a press conference, and a team dinner ahead of the Copa del Rey final. This decision follows the Spanish Football Federation`s refusal to replace match officials Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea and Pablo Gonzalez Fuertes for Saturday`s game in Sevilla. Real Madrid argues that recent comments made by Gonzalez Fuertes render him unfit to officiate the final.
The club`s request for a change in refereeing personnel was rejected by the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF). Leading up to the final, both officials addressed the abuse they have faced over their appointment, with Gonzalez Fuertes specifically mentioning coverage by Real Madrid`s own television channel, `Real Madrid TV`.
In comments widely reported, Gonzalez Fuertes addressed the criticism directly:
`I`m going to talk about those videos… More than what`s being said, it`s the consequences of what`s being said. We`re seeing anonymous people on social media insulting and threatening without any control. Official club social media managers are continually attacking our community, in addition to player actions and statements that give rise to the belief that we`re not being honest in our decisions. The consequences are that when you talk about theft and bad language, the frustration you generate in the fans is paid for by the little boy or girl who grabs a whistle and has to officiate a child`s game. It`s the consequence of putting the target on a teammate`s head. It`s good and healthy for everyone to return to a healthier style of football.`
He highlighted how attacks from official club channels and players can incite abuse from anonymous users and even impact young referees.
This is not the first instance of Real Madrid expressing concerns about officiating this season. In February, the club issued an open letter alleging that Spanish refereeing is “rigged” and has become “completely discredited.”
Real Madrid`s Official Stance
Los Blancos subsequently issued an official statement reiterating their demand for the referee change before the match.
The club described the referees` public statements as “unacceptable,” particularly noting the focus on Real Madrid TV`s videos, which they argue is protected by freedom of expression. They see this as further evidence of the officials` “clear and manifest animosity and hostility” towards Real Madrid.
The statement also found “even more surprising statements, in a threatening tone” regarding referee unity, suggesting they alluded to actions deviating from impartiality. Real Madrid urged the RFEF and refereeing body officials to “act accordingly, adopting the necessary measures to defend the prestige of the institutions they represent.”
Real Madrid maintains that Gonzalez Fuertes` public comments compromise his ability to make impartial decisions and should necessitate his replacement. This incident is part of a pattern of referee-related complaints from the club during a contentious season.
Background of Complaints
One notable incident cited occurred in February during a match against Espanyol, which Real Madrid lost 1-0. The club felt disadvantaged by refereeing decisions, particularly regarding a foul on Kylian Mbappe that resulted only in a yellow card, despite appeals for a red and a VAR review upholding the yellow. Espanyol went on to score the winning goal, impacting Real Madrid`s position in the tight La Liga title race.
This match was central to Real Madrid and Real Madrid TV`s narrative of receiving unfair treatment from referees. This theme has reportedly influenced the analysis of various decisions throughout the season, including Jude Bellingham`s red card for dissent against Osasuna. The current dispute ahead of the Copa del Rey final represents the culmination of these ongoing tensions.
Outlook
Despite Real Madrid`s strong demands, there is currently no indication that the referees will be replaced for the final. It remains unclear whether the club might take further action, such as protesting their participation. However, it is certain that every official decision during the match will be subject to intense scrutiny.
While the RFEF has already dismissed Real Madrid`s initial plea to change the officials, the club`s recent forceful statement indicates they are far from considering the matter closed.
