The tough sanctions Real Madrid could have faced for missing Copa del Rey final | OneFootball

Real Madrid’s refusal to participate in the Copa del Rey final against Barcelona had sparked severe controversy, following a press conference by referees De Burgos Bengoetxea and Gonzalez Fuertes that triggered the club’s decision.

While the club initially seemed determined to withdraw from the match, the consequences of such a move have become clearer, and they would be significant for the club.

As such, according to reports from MARCA, Real Madrid’s non-participation would lead to immediate penalties under Article 77 of the RFEF regulations.

This article states that if a team fails to show up for a match or withdraws, it automatically loses the tie. However, Barcelona would not be handed the title by default.

Instead, the trophy would be awarded to the team that was eliminated by Real Madrid in the competition, which in this case would be Real Sociedad.

Financial and image repercussions

Beyond the automatic loss, Real Madrid face other serious consequences. According to the rules, the club would be banned from competing in the Copa del Rey for the following season.

There would have been serious consequences for Real Madrid. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)

In addition, they could face a fine ranging between €3,000 and €12,000. Further complicating matters, the club might be liable for compensation claims from third parties.

This includes the Spanish Football Federation, the organisers of the final, Seville City Council, and even Barcelona.

These groups could all demand compensation due to the disruption caused by Real Madrid’s withdrawal, particularly since they have contractual commitments with sponsors that have now been affected.

Fans, too, would feel the impact. Those who paid for travel, accommodation, and tickets to the final would expect refunds, and Real Madrid would be required to compensate them in coordination with the Federation.

The potential loss in revenue from ticket sales and sponsorship deals is a further blow to the club’s finances.

However, the biggest consequence could be the damage to Real Madrid’s image. The final is a high-profile event, attended by top authorities, including the King of Spain, and broadcast to millions of fans worldwide.