Fri Apr 25 18:30:00 UTC 2025: ## Real Madrid Boycott Copa del Rey Final Events Amid Refereeing Row

**Seville, Spain** – Real Madrid has escalated its dispute with Spanish football authorities, boycotting Friday’s pre-Copa del Rey final press conference, training session, and photo-call. The club is protesting comments made by the refereeing team assigned to Saturday’s final against Barcelona, expressing concerns that the statements demonstrate “clear and manifest animosity and hostility” towards the club.

The controversy stems from remarks made by referee Ricardo De Burgos Bengoetxea and video assistant referee Pablo González Fuertes. They addressed Real Madrid TV’s frequent criticism of refereeing decisions, highlighting the negative impact such criticism has on referees and their families. De Burgos Bengoetxea, visibly emotional, described the harassment his family has faced, citing instances of his son being called names at school. González Fuertes emphasized the consequences of online attacks, pointing to the potential chilling effect on aspiring young referees.

Real Madrid, in a strongly worded statement, deemed the referees’ comments unacceptable, claiming they targeted the club’s media outlet, protected by freedom of expression. The club has previously lodged formal complaints regarding refereeing decisions, including one earlier this year following a match against Espanyol. President Florentino Pérez has been a vocal advocate for refereeing system reform in Spain, even suggesting the use of English officials.

While a source indicated initial considerations of boycotting the final itself, another source suggests the situation is unlikely to escalate to that level. However, the club’s actions demonstrate the depth of its frustration. The RFEF denies receiving a formal request from Real Madrid for a change in the refereeing team.

Real Madrid’s on-field performance also came under scrutiny. Analyst Craig Burley criticized the team’s recent nervy La Liga win over Getafe, suggesting a lack of cohesive team play. Despite these challenges, Real Madrid remains in contention for a domestic double, trailing league leaders Barcelona by only four points with five games remaining. The high-stakes Copa del Rey final adds further pressure to an already tense situation.

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