Spanish referees union files complaints against Florentino Pérez and Real Madrid

The Asociación Española de Árbitros de Fútbol has lodged two separate complaints with the Spanish State Commission Against Violence, Racism, Xenophobia, and Intolerance in Sport on May 21, 2026. The first complaint targets Florentino Pérez, president of Real Madrid, over his public statements on May 12 and 13, 2026, where he accused the referees' collective of systemic corruption, title theft, and illicit enrichment. The second complaint names both Real Madrid Club de Fútbol and its television channel Real Madrid TV, alleging the systematic and deliberate broadcast of videos targeting referees over the past four seasons. The complaints follow Pérez’s remarks, which the referees’ union considers defamatory and damaging to their professional integrity. The referees’ union argues that Pérez’s allegations lack factual basis and constitute an attack on the collective’s reputation. The complaints seek legal and disciplinary action against the Real Madrid president for statements deemed harmful to the arbitration community. Real Madrid TV’s alleged role centers on the repeated airing of content perceived as hostile toward referees, including edited footage and commentary that the union claims undermines fair officiating. The complaints highlight a pattern of behavior spanning multiple seasons. The Spanish State Commission will now review both complaints to determine their validity and potential sanctions. The process may include hearings and evidence submission from all parties involved. Florentino Pérez has not publicly responded to the complaints following his initial statements. The Real Madrid president previously accused referees of bias and corruption in post-match interviews and media appearances. Real Madrid Club de Fútbol and its media operations face scrutiny over the editorial line of Real Madrid TV, which the referees’ union describes as systematically undermining officiating standards. The channel’s broadcasts are cited as a contributing factor to referee harassment. The complaints reflect growing tensions between top-tier clubs and referees in Spain, with the referees’ union calling for stronger protections against defamation and intimidation. The case may set a precedent for future disputes involving public figures and football authorities. The State Commission’s decision could lead to fines, disciplinary measures, or further investigations into the allegations. The outcome will be closely monitored by football stakeholders across Spain.