Real Madrid Boycott Disrupts Copa del Rey Final

Real Madrid boycotted all pre-match activities and demanded the removal of the officiating team ahead of the Copa del Rey final against Barcelona, after referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea broke down in tears at a press conference addressing criticism from Real Madrid TV. The club's channel had aired videos alleging refereeing errors and bias, which De Burgos said resulted in harassment of his family and bullying of his son. Real Madrid cited the referees' emotional public statements as evidence of hostility and a conflict of interest, formally requesting new officials. The Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) rejected this, asserting confidence in the referees and warning that changing them would undermine authority. The controversy has sparked strong public reaction and increased scrutiny of Real Madrid's media tactics and the pressures on Spanish referees. Although Real Madrid have not formally withdrawn, their boycott has disrupted preparations for the final.