Real Madrid’s president, Florentino Perez, will not take part in the upcoming match against Barcelona in the 27th round of Spain’s top league. Reports from El Mundo indicate that Perez is concerned about a potentially hostile atmosphere surrounding the fixture due to Real Madrid’s involvement in the ongoing corruption investigation linked to the bribery allegations involving José María Enríquez Negreira, the former vice-chairman of the refereeing committee.
In light of these tensions, Perez and Barcelona’s president, Joan Laporta, chose not to share their traditional pre-match meal ahead of the clásico. The move underscores the high emotions surrounding the case and the prominent roles both clubs play in a rivalry that often extends beyond the pitch.
The Clasico is scheduled to take place today in Barcelona at the Camp Nou, with kickoff set for 23:00 local time. Fans and analysts anticipate a match charged with significance, not only for the league standings but also for the wider questions it raises about governance and integrity in the sport.
As the teams prepare to face off and the stadium fills, Barcelona currently sits with 65 points while Real Madrid trails with 56, making the clash pivotal in the race for the title and European qualification. The result could reverberate through the rest of the season, influencing momentum for both clubs as they navigate the remainder of the campaign.
Meanwhile, FIFA President Gianni Infantino has called for a careful, constructive resolution to the Barcelona case, emphasizing the need for transparency in investigations that involve the selection and evaluation of referees. His remarks reflect a broader push within football’s global governance structure to address perceived irregularities and restore confidence among fans, players, and stakeholders alike.