Real Madrid are “in a different universe” if they think LaLiga officials are biased against them, said league president Javier Tebas amidst ongoing discussions about officiating standards.
Following their 2-1 loss to Atletico Madrid in Sunday’s derby at the Estadio Metropolitano, the contentious nature of the defeat incited a strong reaction from the Madrid camp.
Jose Mourinho’s side had Dean Huijsen sent off for a foul as the last defender early in the second half, while Madrid argued that Lee Kang-in and Cristian Romero should also have been dismissed—Kang-in for a high challenge on Federico Valverde and Romero for stepping on Jude Bellingham.
Mourinho showcased printed images of both incidents during his post-match press conference, labeling them the “narrative of the game” and criticizing referee Ortiz Arias as unqualified and lacking experience.
Atletico responded on their social media on Monday by posting a picture from Mourinho’s press conference with the caption: “Stop referee harassment now.”
In their official match report, Madrid titled it “a terrible refereeing performance decides the derby,” including visuals of the Lee and Romero incidents.
In previous criticisms, Tebas has taken issue with Madrid’s treatment of referees and their attempts to form a breakaway European Super League, and now he is again condemning the club’s behavior.
A dreadful refereeing performance decides the derby.https://t.co/4bCOqYmg4j
— Real Madrid C.F. (@realmadriden) September 20, 2026
“Here we go again, the spokespersons and the regime’s media perpetuating the same old narrative: the constant conspiracy,” Tebas commented on X, responding to a Spanish news piece suggesting referees consistently favor Madrid’s rivals.
“To say that referees are plotting against Real Madrid is living in another universe. This narrative serves as an excuse to distract from other evident shortcomings observed in the early matches of the season. It’s easier to blame a conspiracy than to address what’s happening on the pitch.”
“REMOVE THE BLINDERS! It’s only September, and they’re already claiming that the League is compromised. No one with common sense buys that old excuse anymore.”
In 2025, Madrid had previously lodged a formal complaint to the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) about LaLiga’s referees, which led Tebas to chide Madrid for damaging the league and “creating a victimhood narrative.”
Fan Take: This news highlights the ongoing tension in LaLiga regarding officiating, which could influence the competitive balance of the league. The clash between two prominent clubs like Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid over officiating standards raises questions about fairness in the sport and resonates deeply with fans who want to see unbiased refereeing.
Source: www.soccernews.com
