Referee Cries Foul Over Real Madrid TV Pressure Ahead of Copa del Rey Final
MADRID (AP) — the referee assigned to Saturday’s Copa del Rey final between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid has publicly denounced what he describes as relentless pressure from Real Madrid’s official television channel, citing severe consequences for his family.
Ricardo de Burgos Bengoechea, in an unusual and emotional press conference held on the eve of the match, explained that Real Madrid TV routinely airs compilations of perceived officiating errors allegedly disadvantaging the club.
Referee Claims Real Madrid TV videos Cause Distress
“The videos from Real Madrid TV upset us all,” de Burgos Bengoechea stated, his voice breaking with emotion. “It’s what has the most repercussions. When your child comes home crying from school becuase they are told their father is a thief, it’s really hard.”
The referee added, “I try to educate my son so that he knows his father is honest. That he makes mistakes, yes, like all other sportsmen. But when I leave, I want my son to be proud of what his father has done, and of what refereeing represents.”
Real Madrid TV’s History of Criticism
Visibly upset, de Burgos Bengoechea called for “reflection” on the state of Spanish football, noting that several colleagues have stepped down from top-tier officiating to avoid the intense pressure.
Real Madrid TV has a history of producing videos critical of referees before matches. This practice intensified in February when the club launched a formal complaint against what it called a ”completely discredited” refereeing system, alleging internal corruption after decisions went against them in La Liga matches.
What are the potential consequences for a referee facing public criticism and pressure from a club’s media?
Referee Cries Foul Over Real Madrid TV Pressure Ahead of Copa del Rey Final
MADRID (AP) — the referee assigned to Saturday’s Copa del Rey final between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid has publicly denounced what he describes as relentless pressure from Real Madrid’s official television channel, citing severe consequences for his family.
Ricardo de Burgos Bengoechea, in an unusual and emotional press conference held on the eve of the match, explained that Real Madrid TV routinely airs compilations of perceived officiating errors allegedly disadvantaging the club.
Referee Claims Real Madrid TV videos Cause Distress
“The videos from Real Madrid TV upset us all,” de Burgos Bengoechea stated, his voice breaking wiht emotion. “It’s what has the most repercussions. When your child comes home crying from school becuase they are told their father is a thief, it’s really hard.”
The referee added, “I try to educate my son so that he knows his father is honest. That he makes mistakes, yes, like all other sportsmen. But when I leave, I want my son to be proud of what his father has done, and of what refereeing represents.”
Real Madrid TV’s History of Criticism
Visibly upset, de burgos Bengoechea called for “reflection” on the state of Spanish football, noting that several colleagues have stepped down from top-tier officiating to avoid the intense pressure.
Real Madrid TV has a history of producing videos critical of referees before matches. This practice intensified in February when the club launched a formal complaint against what it called a ”completely discredited” refereeing system, alleging internal corruption after decisions went against them in La Liga matches.
Q&A: Unpacking the referee’s Concerns
Q: What exactly is real Madrid TV doing?
A: Real Madrid’s official TV channel airs videos highlighting refereeing decisions they perceive as detrimental to their team. These videos frequently enough compile controversial calls and aim to put pressure on match officials.
Q: Why is the referee so upset?
A: Referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoechea is distressed by the personal attacks and the impact on his family, notably his child. He feels these videos unfairly portray him and other referees as biased or corrupt.
Q: Has this happened before?
A: Yes, Real Madrid TV has a history of criticizing referees, especially before crucial matches. This practice intensified in February when the club formally complained about the refereeing system.
Q: What’s the impact on other referees?
A: The pressure is so intense that some referees have chosen to retire from top-tier officiating to avoid the scrutiny and criticism.
Q: Can anything be done?
A: Referee de Burgos Bengoechea calls for reflection on the state of Spanish football. This suggests a need for greater protection for referees and a more respectful environment.
Trivia: Did you know that in some countries, referees are provided with psychological support to deal with the pressures of the job?
The Copa del Rey final promises to be a thrilling match, but this controversy reminds us of the human cost behind the beautiful game. Let’s hope for a fair game and a more respectful environment for all involved, especially the referees.
