### Tensions Rise as Real Madrid Boycotts Pre-Match Activities Over Referee's Emotional Breakdown In a dramatic lead-up to the Copa del Rey final between Real Madrid and Barcelona, tensions escalated when referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea broke down in tears during a press conference. This emotional moment was triggered by criticism from Real Madrid's in-house television channel, which had aired a video questioning the referee's competence. Real Madrid responded by boycotting all pre-match activities, accusing the referee of bias and demanding action against officiating standards in Spanish football. The situation has sparked widespread debate about the integrity of officiating in high-stakes matches and the pressures faced by referees in the sport. ### Breakdown of the Incident and Reactions 1. **Referee's Emotional Appeal**: Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea expressed his distress over the pressure his family has faced due to criticism from Real Madrid's media. His emotional breakdown highlighted the personal toll that public scrutiny can take on officials [https://www.apnews.com/article/referees-real-madrid-video-9376adf6456d8771ed3c4d07776e2553]. 2. **Real Madrid's Response**: In reaction to the referee's statements, Real Madrid boycotted pre-match press conferences and activities, labeling the referee's comments as "unacceptable." They claimed that the officiating in Spanish football is biased against them [https://www.hindustantimes.com/sports/football/real-madrid-boycott-el-clasico-final-pc-after-referee-s-tearful-rant-accuse-him-of-animosity-before-barcelona-clash-101745632996772.html]. 3. **Barcelona's Perspective**: Barcelona's head coach, Hansi Flick, criticized Real Madrid for their lack of respect towards match officials, suggesting that the club's actions detract from the spirit of the game [https://www.90min.com/hansi-flick-blasts-real-madrid-copa-del-rey-referee-saga]. 4. **Media Coverage and Public Reaction**: The incident has garnered significant media attention, with various outlets discussing the implications of the referee's emotional state and Real Madrid's subsequent actions. The narrative has sparked debates about the pressures faced by referees and the responsibilities of clubs in maintaining a respectful environment [https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/copa-del-rey-referee-real-madrid-barcelona-cries-b2739617.html]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Referee's Win Rates**: Historical data shows that when Ricardo de Burgos officiated Real Madrid's matches, the team had a 64% win rate, while Barcelona enjoyed an 81% success rate under his officiating [https://indianexpress.com/article/sports/football/before-el-clasico-referee-breaks-down-following-real-madrid-row-9967429]. - **Public Statements**: Real Madrid's open letter in February claimed that Spanish officiating was "rigged" and "completely discredited," indicating a long-standing concern about referee bias [https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/sports/2025/04/26/real-boycott-copa-final-build-up-amid-refs-unacceptable-statements]. ### Conclusion: A Complex Web of Emotions and Allegations The unfolding drama surrounding the Copa del Rey final encapsulates a broader issue within football regarding the treatment of referees and the pressures they face. 1. **Emotional Toll on Officials**: The emotional breakdown of referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea underscores the significant stress referees endure, particularly in high-stakes matches [https://www.theguardian.com/football/2025/apr/25/copa-del-rey-final-referee-breaks-down-in-wake-of-real-madrid-tv-criticism]. 2. **Real Madrid's Stance**: By boycotting pre-match activities, Real Madrid has taken a firm stand against what they perceive as unfair treatment, although this has drawn criticism from various quarters [https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/real-madrid-statement-referee-copa-del-rey-final-boycott-b1224385.html]. 3. **Future Implications**: The incident raises questions about the future of officiating in Spanish football and the need for reforms to ensure a fair and respectful environment for all parties involved [https://www.si.com/onsi/soccer/real-madrid/news/barcelona-coach-hansi-flick-discusses-referees-amid-real-madrid-chaos]. In summary, the Copa del Rey final is not just a match between two football giants; it is a reflection of the ongoing struggles within the sport regarding respect, integrity, and the emotional well-being of its officials.