Real Madrid Formally Reports Barcelona Corruption Scandal to UEFA
Real Madrid has submitted documents to UEFA concerning the so-called Negreira case, which will now be reviewed by UEFA's Ethics and Disciplinary Committee. The case over Barcelona's payments to a referees' committee official has gained international significance.
UEFA has confirmed receiving a substantial amount of documentation from Real Madrid regarding alleged violations by rival club Barcelona. The so-called Negreira case will now be examined by UEFA's Ethics and Disciplinary Committee, giving the matter an international dimension.
Background of the case
The scandal became public in early 2023, when Spanish media reported on a tax authority investigation. It revealed that Barcelona had made payments over an extended period to companies linked to José María Enríquez Negreira, former vice-president of the Spanish Royal Football Federation's Technical Committee of Referees. Between 2001 and 2018, Negreira's companies received a total of 7.4 million euros.
Conflicting explanations
According to reports, Negreira stated that he was paid to ensure neutral refereeing in the club's matches. Barcelona's leadership, meanwhile, claimed that Negreira had been hired as an independent refereeing consultant who provided analytical reports on referees ahead of matches. The club has categorically denied paying for favorable refereeing or that the money ever reached match officials.
Court proceedings and next steps
In May 2014, a Spanish court dismissed bribery charges against officials, since under Spanish law Negreira did not qualify as a public official. However, the investigation into possible sporting corruption continues. With Real Madrid's formal complaint to UEFA, the case has now also come under the scrutiny of European football's governing body.
