The La Rioja committee has appointed the referee for a highly anticipated clash on day 29, a fixture that carries both history and pressure as Athletic Bilbao faces Real Sociedad in the Basque derby. The match, set to take place in San Mamés on a Saturday that falls on day 29 of the LaLiga calendar, will be overseen by César Soto Grado. The 42-year-old official will be supported from theVAR room by Ignacio Iglesias Villanueva, a colleague from Galicia, ensuring that technology assists the decision making throughout the game.
César Soto Grado is the appointed referee for the Athletics versus Real Sociedad showdown, a fixture steeped in regional rivalry and widely regarded as one of the most fiercely contested in Spanish football. The Basque derby is not just about three points; it carries symbolic weight for both clubs and their fans, with San Mamés expected to crackle with energy as the two teams battle for supremacy in the league standings. Soto Grado brings a wealth of experience to this particular match, having established himself in Spain’s top division and on the international stage, where his performances have been under continued scrutiny from players, coaches, and analysts alike.
Born in Ávila on June 17, 1980, Soto Grado is part of the La Rioja refereeing committee. His ascent to the Primera División came at the start of the 2019-2020 season, following a successful period as the chief referee in the SmartBank League, where he honed the leadership and decision making that would define his style at the highest level. Since 2022, he has held international status as a FIFA listed referee, reflecting his recognition beyond domestic competitions. His trajectory illustrates a steady climb through the ranks, earning him trust from football authorities and respect from players who value consistency and clarity in officiating decisions.
One notable moment in Soto Grado’s refereeing history is his recognition for officiating in high-stakes settings. He was entrusted with refereeing a final in the Spanish Super Cup held in the Middle East, a match that pitted Real Madrid against Athletic Club. That assignment underscored his capability to manage pressure, maintain control, and enforce the rules in a final where the stakes were exceptionally high and the atmosphere intensely charged. This experience is frequently cited by observers when evaluating his readiness for matches that carry extra significance beyond the ordinary league program.
In terms of his track record in the top tier, Soto Grado has overseen a substantial number of games that have tested his judgment, discipline, and temperament management. Across Primera División, he has produced a large tally of cautions to ensure fair play and has been asked to adjudicate on a variety of contentious moments. His approach is often characterized by a willingness to communicate with players to prevent incidents, along with clear, decisive actions when fouls or disputes arise. The balance he seeks between firm enforcement of the rules and the preservation of the flow of the game is a defining feature of his style on the field.
As with many referees at this level, the day to day life of Soto Grado includes continuous education and review. The role demands staying current with evolving interpretations of the laws, adapting to the different tempo of matches, and coordinating with assistants and the video assistant referee team to ensure accuracy in real time. This constant preparation is reflected in the level of trust placed in him by league organizers and clubs who rely on his consistency to deliver fair results week after week. The Basque derby, with its long-standing traditions and passionate rivalries, provides him with a stage that requires meticulous attention, clear signaling, and an authoritative presence on the pitch to keep the spectacle orderly and competitive.
Ultimately, the appointment of Soto Grado for the Athletic Bilbao versus Real Sociedad encounter underscores the importance of experienced referees in high-profile fixtures. It highlights the expectation that the official will manage the match with a balanced approach, safeguarding players while allowing the drama of one of Spanish football’s most enduring battles to unfold. Fans and analysts alike will be watching not only for the outcomes on the scoreboard but also for the integrity and precision of the officiating that shapes the course of the game from kickoff to the final whistle.