The head of the Spanish referees committee has stated that Real Madrid has significantly reduced its public criticism of officials in recent times, clarifying that a recent controversial decision was not the catalyst for this change in approach.
In an interview with the radio station Cadena SER, the committee’s president, Luis Medina Cantalejo, addressed the often-tense relationship between the club and the refereeing body. He confirmed a noticeable shift in the tone coming from the Santiago Bernabéu.
“It is true that Real Madrid has softened its attacks on us,” Medina Cantalejo said. He was quick to dismiss any link to the recent decision not to award a penalty to Real Madrid’s Jude Bellingham in the final moments of their 2-2 draw with Valencia on March 2, 2024. “The last decision is not the reason,” he insisted.
The veteran official, who took over the committee’s presidency in the summer of 2023, suggested the change predated that incident. He pointed to a broader, more strategic shift within the club’s communications. “I think they have realized that this [constant public criticism] is not the way,” he added.
Medina Cantalejo revealed that he maintains a direct line of communication with Real Madrid. “I speak with the club,” he stated, indicating that dialogue, rather than public confrontation, is now being prioritized. This development marks a potential de-escalation in a long-running feud that has frequently dominated Spanish football headlines.
