Real Madrid has boycotted pre-match activities for their Copa del Rey final against Barcelona after referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea gave an emotional press conference.
De Burgos tearfully responded to a critical video of his past decisions aired by Real Madrid’s RMTV.
A Real Madrid source told Reuters they were “astonished” by the press conference, deeming it a “clear conflict of interest,” though they haven’t requested a referee change.
De Burgos stated the criticism was deeply personal, saying, “When a child arrives at school and his mates tell him that his father is a thief, it makes you sick.” He defended his integrity and the challenges faced by officials.
VAR official Pablo Gonzalez Fuertes hinted at imminent action from referees due to increasing pressure.
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick emphasized the need to protect referees.
This follows previous instances of Real Madrid criticizing Spanish referees, raising concerns about the officiating climate ahead of the final.
