Real Madrid have firmly denied rumours they might pull out of Saturday’s Copa del Rey final against Barcelona, despite growing tensions over referee criticism. This comes after an emotional news conference where match official Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea broke down in tears while addressing the pressure he and his family have faced due to repeated attacks from Real Madrid TV.
The 39-year-old referee, who will oversee Saturday night’s highly anticipated Clasico in Seville, is the latest target of scrutiny from the club’s media outlet. A controversial video highlighted his alleged bias, lack of top-tier tournament experience, and past decisions in matches involving both Barcelona and Real Madrid.
De Burgos Bengoetxea delivered a heartfelt message in response. “When your child comes home crying because schoolmates call his father a thief, it’s totally messed up,” he said. “I try to teach my son that his father is honest — above all, honest — and like any sportsperson, he can make mistakes.”
Real Madrid, angered by the backlash from referees, responded by boycotting official pre-match activities, including the mandatory press conference and open training session. However, they later released a statement clarifying their commitment to the final.
“In light of the rumours… Real Madrid CF announces that our team has never considered withdrawing,” the club said. “Despite the hostility and animosity manifested once again today, the values of football must prevail.”
This isn’t the first clash between Real Madrid and Spanish football authorities. In February, the club issued a scathing letter to the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) and Spain’s High Council for Sports, alleging systemic bias and claiming that Spanish refereeing was “rigged” and “discredited.” That letter followed a narrow 1-0 defeat to Espanyol.
VAR official Pablo Gonzalez Fuertes also addressed the situation, warning that officials are nearing a breaking point. “Have no doubt we are going to take much more serious measures. We won’t continue to bear what we’re putting up with,” he said. “Soon, you’ll hear from us.”
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick expressed concern over the escalating hostilities. “It’s only a sport. It’s only football,” said the German. “Our responsibility is to protect everyone involved — not just the players. It’s not nice what happened today. Something must be done.”
The RFEF previously condemned the “repulsive” abuse faced by officials, including referee Jose Luis Munuera Montero after he controversially sent off Jude Bellingham in February.
As the countdown to kick-off continues, tensions remain high. The final in Seville is no longer just about silverware — it’s now a focal point in an increasingly bitter battle between one of the world’s most storied clubs and the officials charged with enforcing the rules of the game.
