Real Madrid will not face Barcelona, Atletico in Copa del Rey until quarter-finals as RFEF approves rule change | OneFootball

The Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) has confirmed major changes to the format of the 2025/2026 Copa del Rey.

The four clubs that will participate in the Spanish Super Cup – FC Barcelona, Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid, and Athletic Club – will now be placed in a separate draw pot not only for the Round of 32, but also for the Round of 16.

As a result, Los Blancos will avoid facing Barcelona, Atletico Madrid or Athletic Club until the quarter-final stages at least.

Previously, the four teams participating in the Super Cup would be separated only for the Round of 32, but the RFEF has now carried it forward for the Round of 16 as well.

As a result of these changes, high-profile matchups such as a Copa Clasico or a Madrid derby will not occur until at least the quarter-final stage.

Real Madrid lost to Barcelona in the Copa del Rey final this year. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)

This system also guarantees that lower-division clubs who progress will have the chance to host one of the top teams at their own stadiums.

Barcelona, Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid, and Athletic Club will all be involved in the Spanish Super Cup, scheduled for January 2026 in Saudi Arabia.

Los Blancos were handed a hammering by Barcelona in the Super Cup final earlier this year. They were also beaten in the Copa del Rey final by Hansi Flick’s side (after extra time) in April.

Under the leadership of Xabi Alonso, Real Madrid will hope for a better outcome should they end up getting paired against their bitter rivals again in the upcoming season.

Source: Mundo Deportivo