La Liga's Tebas Rejects Real Madrid Refereeing Conspiracy Claims

League president Javier Tebas says Real Madrid's officiating complaints are a distraction from the team's own early-season problems.

La Liga president Javier Tebas has pushed back firmly against suggestions that referees are working against Real Madrid, saying anyone making that claim is "living in another galaxy."

The dispute follows Real Madrid's 2-1 derby defeat to Atletico Madrid, after which manager Jose Mourinho appeared at his post-match news conference with printed screenshots. He argued Atletico should have received two first-half red cards and said the officiating told the story of the game. Real finished the match with 10 men after defender Dean Huijsen was sent off.

Responding on social media to a Spanish media article alleging a conspiracy, Tebas said the narrative is being used as an excuse. He said it is easier to blame officials than to explain what is happening on the pitch, and that it covers up shortcomings visible in the team's opening matches of the season.

Real Madrid currently sit fourth in La Liga, six points behind leaders Barcelona, who have won all seven of their league matches to reach 21 points.

Tebas and Real Madrid have clashed before. He criticized the club and president Florentino Perez over their backing of the European Super League in 2021, and in 2025 said the club had "lost their head" after it sent a formal complaint about league officiating to the Spanish FA.