VIDEO: Real Madrid TV launch latest attack on Spanish referees by posting discouraging compilation of Copa del Rey official Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea ahead of final meeting with Barcelona

Known for their practice of scrutinising referees publicly, Real Madrid’s in-house media arm has taken another opportunity to question the integrity and consistency of match officials, placing De Burgos Bengoetxea at the centre of their latest controversy. The Basque official, aged 39, is no stranger to Spain’s biggest fixtures and with several El Clásico appearances already on his résumé, his selection for this high-stakes final initially appeared to be a testament to his experience.

According to Spanish outlet Marca, the club’s television network highlighted a series of what they claim to be glaring officiating "mistakes" by De Burgos Bengoetxea in matches involving Real Madrid. The video points out Real Madrid’s relatively poor record when officiated by De Burgos Bengoetxea. With only a 64% win rate under his supervision, Los Blancos appear to struggle when he’s on the pitch. In contrast, Barcelona reportedly thrives, having secured victory in 81% of their matches with him in charge.

Adding further weight to their argument, Real Madrid TV noted that the club has managed just two wins from their last five games with the referee. The concern, they claim, isn't just about a single match, but a broader trend that raises doubts about fairness and balance.

Critics of the appointment have also drawn attention to De Burgos Bengoetxea's continental track record—or lack thereof. Although he has held international referee status since 2018, he has never officiated a UEFA Champions League fixture. Furthermore, FIFA has yet to include him in any of their global tournaments. Despite his absence on the global stage, De Burgos Bengoetxea has found favour in Spain, especially in matches involving the country's biggest sides. This upcoming title decider marks his third time officiating a Real Madrid vs Barcelona final, having previously overseen the Super Cup clashes in 2017 and 2023.

As Real Madrid and Barcelona prepare to face off in what promises to be a fiercely contested final, the spotlight will now be firmly on the man with the whistle. With both fan bases watching closely and tensions already inflamed by media narratives, one can only hope that the referee’s performance won’t become the headline.