RFEF Dismisses Key Refereeing Officials
In a significant move aimed at overhauling its refereeing structure, the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) announced on Thursday that it has dismissed both the head of VAR and the president of the Technical Committee of Referees. Luis Medina Cantalejo, who had led Spain’s Technical Committee of Referees (CTA) since December 2021, along with Carlos Clos Gómez, the former referee in charge of VAR operations, are being replaced as part of a broader initiative to reform officiating in Spanish football.
Commitment to Reform
The RFEF articulated the intention behind this shakeup, emphasizing a commitment to usher in a new era in refereeing that aligns with findings and discussions from a reform group comprising various stakeholders, including referees, professional clubs, and the Federation itself. In its official statement, the RFEF expressed gratitude to Medina Cantalejo and Clos Gómez for their dedication and professionalism during their tenure.
Background of Controversies
Rafael Louzan, the president of the RFEF, hinted earlier this year that a major transformation of refereeing in Spain was on the horizon. This announcement follows a season marred by controversies over officiating decisions, with clubs, particularly Real Madrid, expressing ongoing dissatisfaction. Real Madrid has actively aired grievances through its official channels, with the club’s TV station pinpointing numerous refereeing errors. Their discontent culminated in a formal complaint submitted to both the RFEF and the High Sports Council of Spain earlier this year, which accused match officials of “manipulation and adulteration” during a noteworthy defeat against Espanyol.
Ongoing Investigations
During his term leading the CTA, Medina Cantalejo was also involved in overseeing the investigation into the controversial Negreira case, which has plagued Spanish football. This case centers around allegations that FC Barcelona made over €7 million (approximately $7.3 million) in payments to José María Enríquez Negreira’s companies between 2001 and 2018, while he served as the vice president of the refereeing committee.
Future Plans
The RFEF is expected to unveil the revamped structure of its Technical Committee of Referees on July 2, as part of its commitment to improve the officiating standards and restore confidence across the football community in Spain.
