Real Madrid accept RFEF invite for summit on refereeing system reform | OneFootball

Real Madrid sparked a war with the refereeing system in Spain with their open letter to the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) complaining against the officiating in their defeat against RCD Espanyol in La Liga.

Subsequently, Los Blancos decided to skip a key meeting involving the RFEF, La Liga, and the Technical Committee of Referees (CTA) as a protest and have since continued to wage war, seeking a major reform in the system.

Key meeting set for next week

Now, according to AS, A crucial meeting for Spanish football is set to take place next Wednesday, as the RFEF has summoned major institutions and selected clubs to discuss the future of domestic competitions and the country’s refereeing system.

Real Madrid, initially not chosen by the clubs to represent professional football in these discussions, have received a direct invitation from the RFEF.

This move is seen as an effort to mend relations with one of the most vocal critics of the current officiating system. The objective is to end ongoing conflicts over refereeing, foster dialogue, and improve Spanish football.

RFEF President Rafael Louzan (L) has invited Real Madrid to key referee reform meeting. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

The first meeting of the working committees – established in February to enhance competitions and officiating – will take place at the Ciudad del Futbol in Las Rozas.

RFEF president Rafael Louzan has convened professional clubs from La Liga and Liga F separately to advance discussions on key issues, including potential competition reforms, the sale of audiovisual rights, and, most significantly, changes to the refereeing system.

Real Madrid accept invitation

As mentioned earlier, Real Madrid had boycotted a previous summit organised by the RFEF, CTA, LaLiga, and clubs from the top two divisions to discuss potential reforms.

Despite this, Louzan has made another attempt to engage Los Blancos in discussions, aiming to reach a consensus on the future of refereeing in Spain.

Consequently, despite not being elected by fellow clubs to represent them, the Federation has extended an invitation to Real Madrid, and the Merengues have accepted.

Real Madrid will join Sevilla, Betis, Albacete, Granada, Racing (also invited despite not being elected), Antequera, Fuenlabrada, Sevilla Femenino, and Tenerife Femenino at the meeting