With just 24 hours remaining before the highly anticipated Copa del Rey final between Real Madrid and Barcelona, Real Madrid have released a powerful and strongly worded official statement condemning the conduct of the referees appointed for the match at La Cartuja in Seville.

Earlier today, the referees gave a press conference that has sparked outrage within the club. Real Madrid described the referees’ remarks as “unacceptable,” particularly due to the timing of the comments and their targeted criticism of Real Madrid TV, the club’s official media channel. The club defended the channel’s right to freedom of expression and made clear their anger at what they see as an attack on one of the match’s key participants.

In a stinging rebuke, the club stated:

“These statements, deliberately made a day before the final and directed at one of its participants, reveal once again a clear and evident hostility towards Real Madrid.”

Real Madrid didn’t stop there. They went on to criticise the tone of the referees’ comments, calling it “threatening,” and highlighted deep concerns over references made during the press conference about collective unity and potential action against Real Madrid. The club argued that such behaviour is absolutely at odds with what is expected of match officials, especially at such a crucial stage of a major competition.

As the statement pointed out:

“The tone of their comments was threatening,” and “their references to collective unity and potential action being taken against Real Madrid are incompatible with the principles of fairness, neutrality, and impartiality expected of match officials.”

Real Madrid also called upon the relevant authorities to act immediately, saying:

“Given the seriousness of what has taken place, Real Madrid expects those responsible within the Spanish Football Federation and the refereeing committee to act accordingly, taking the necessary steps to protect the integrity and reputation of the institutions they represent.”

According to multiple reports, Real Madrid are even considering whether to participate in Saturday’s final, after a day of heavy protests and public backlash over the referees’ remarks.