In a public statement, officials expressed a firm resolve to pursue the matter to its conclusion and urged a calmer atmosphere, asking everyone involved to reduce friction with referees during the process.
The situation surrounding the Negreira case continues to unfold with new movements. The Royal Spanish Football Federation has announced that it will participate in the legal proceedings after the Prosecutor’s Office filed a formal complaint alleging payments from FC Barcelona to José María Enríquez Negreira, the former Vice President of the Technical Commission of referees. The complaint is currently under consideration by the Barcelona Investigating Judge Number 1, who has jurisdiction over the matter.
The RFEF clarified in an official communication that it has already forwarded the Integrity Department’s report and all supporting documentation to the UEFA Integrity Director. This step signals the federation’s commitment to transparency and collaboration with authorities as the investigation progresses.
According to the statement, the investigation in question is not tied to the current roster or a single team; it predates the present squad and its activities. It was also noted that UEFA has been informed about the federation’s decision to appear in court. At the same time, the aforementioned report has been shared with the Spanish Sports Council and with FC Barcelona as well as the CTA through the Integrity Department, ensuring all relevant parties have access to the necessary materials.
The RFEF emphasized its determination to pursue the case to its end and called for measured conduct among all parties to ease tensions surrounding the refereeing corps. This appeal aimed at maintaining a respectful climate amid ongoing scrutiny and public discussion.
In its closing remarks, the federation also acknowledged and thanked the association of referees linked to the CTA. The message highlighted the unity of professionals currently serving in top-tier football and recognized the broad support they have received from respected figures within the Spanish arbitration community. This solidarity was presented as a stabilizing force during a period of intense attention and debate. (Goal)