Real Madrid’s relationship with referees in Spain has long been fraught with tension, but recent events have dramatically escalated this rivalry, particularly on the eve of the Copa del Rey final. The controversy began when Pablo Gonzalez Fuertes, serving as the VAR for the final match, openly criticized videos released by Real Madrid TV, which provoked the club to request a change of referees just before the game.
In a pre-match press conference attended by both Gonzalez Fuertes and on-field referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea, the emotional weight of the situation became evident. Bengoetxea was visibly distressed, breaking down in tears as he discussed the intense criticism and mounting pressure he has faced. The day before, Real Madrid TV had aired a scathing review of his officiating, which had contributed to the emotional turmoil. Gonzalez Fuertes later addressed how the relentless scrutiny affects referees and, more importantly, their families, especially their children, who often experience the backlash from public commentary.
Los Blancos, feeling bewildered by the referees’ response, expressed concerns that such emotional displays indicated a lack of readiness for officiating the high-stakes final. They interpreted Bengoetxea’s tears as a sign of vulnerability and believed that his emotional state, combined with Gonzalez Fuertesβ comments about the club, warranted an immediate change in officiating staff. Real Madrid’s request for a last-minute switch became a hot topic of discussion, as they argued it was necessary to ensure a fair officiating environment during such a crucial match.
Nevertheless, despite these concerns, reports from Diario AS indicated that Real Madrid still retained some level of confidence in the Referees Technical Committee (CTA). However, the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) was quick to dismiss their request, asserting that the officials were fully capable of handling the final. RFEF representatives emphasized the necessity of maintaining impartiality, declaring, βWeβre not going to dance to any teamβs tune. It would be the cherry on top to change the referees now, so that Barca can ask for the same thing later. The teams arenβt going to appoint the refereesβ¦β This statement reflects concerns about setting a precedent that could lead to chaotic demands from other clubs in the future.
The occurrence of referees addressing the media prior to a significant match is typically rare, as is a club openly requesting changes to officiating personnel. The RFEF’s refusal to comply with Real Madrid’s request reinforces their commitment to fair play and impartiality. Had they yielded to the demands, it would have likely been perceived as favoritism and could have opened the floodgates for other teams to pursue similar actions in contentious situations.
As anticipation builds for the finale, it is evident that the intensity of the spotlight on referees has reached unprecedented levels, foreshadowing a match that will be closely monitored not only for the thrilling competition between the teams but also for the referees who will be managing the game under tremendous scrutiny. This heightened attention underscores the ongoing challenges faced by officials in balancing their responsibilities on the field with the pressures of public perception and media commentary.
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