New Delhi: Real Madrid have taken an extraordinary step ahead of their upcoming clash with Girona at the Santiago Bernabéu. The club has urged fans to chant “Corruption in the federation” during the 12th minute of the match, a direct protest against what they believe to be unfair refereeing decisions in La Liga. This call to action follows Jude Bellingham’s controversial red card against Osasuna, which sparked outrage among Madrid’s hierarchy and supporters.
Club officials recently met with Spanish football authorities to discuss the growing concerns over officiating. While Medina Cantalejo, head of the Spanish referees’ committee, described the meeting as cordial, tensions remain high. Madrid’s leadership, led by Florentino Pérez, feels that the team has been repeatedly disadvantaged by questionable decisions, and this protest is their way of making their frustrations known.
Real Madrid’s battle with La Liga officiating
🚨 JUST IN: Real Madrid have asked fans at the Bernabéu to chant ‘Corruption in the federation’ in the 12th minute tomorrow.
The club was previously against these chants, but they now want to go all out, Florentino Pérez is CLEAR about it. @Rodra10_97 pic.twitter.com/hXTC5AefZy
— Madrid Xtra (@MadridXtra) February 22, 2025
Real Madrid believe they have been unfairly treated by referees this season, with several key decisions going against them. The club argues that these calls have impacted crucial matches and could ultimately influence the title race. The Bellingham red card was just the latest in a string of incidents that have left Madrid feeling marginalised.
The timing of the protest—during the 12th minute—is significant. It symbolises the fans’ belief that officiating in La Liga lacks fairness and transparency. Madrid’s call for a mass chant at the Bernabéu sends a strong message not just to referees, but also to the Spanish football federation and league officials. Pérez has made it clear that he will not remain silent over what he perceives as ongoing injustices.
This is not the first time Madrid have voiced concerns over refereeing in Spain. The club has previously highlighted inconsistencies in officiating, particularly in key fixtures. However, openly encouraging a stadium-wide protest marks a more aggressive approach. It also raises questions about the wider state of Spanish football governance and whether reforms are needed to improve the standard of refereeing.
High stakes against Girona
🚨🎙️| Javier Tebas: “Real Madrid is a crying club. The wife of Real Madrid’s representative and pitchside delegate Megía Dávila works in the referees’ committee (CTA), yet no one has raised concerns about a conflict of interest like they did with Munuera Montero.” ⚪ pic.twitter.com/1QRNgiV2TS
— BarçaTimes (@BarcaTimes) February 23, 2025
Sunday’s clash against Girona is crucial for Real Madrid. Girona have been one of the surprise teams this season, challenging at the top of the table. Madrid know they cannot afford to drop points, especially with the title race so tight. The Bernabéu crowd is expected to play a major role, both in pushing the team forward and making their voices heard against refereeing controversies.
While the focus remains on winning the match, this protest ensures that Madrid’s dissatisfaction with La Liga officiating will be in the spotlight. It also puts added pressure on the match officials, who will be under intense scrutiny given the ongoing tensions. Whether this bold move leads to any changes in refereeing standards remains to be seen, but Madrid have made their position clear—they will no longer stay silent on decisions they believe are harming their chances.
Real Madrid fans will stage a protest during the 12th minute of their match against Girona, chanting against La Liga referees over recent controversial decisions, including Jude Bellingham’s red card. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
