Real Madrid has announced in an official statement its categorical refusal to play the Villarreal match against Barcelona, in which it is scheduled for the 17th round of the Spanish league this season abroad (in US territory).
The club pointed out that the decision coincides with a proposal that violates the principle of reciprocity in the home-and-away system, where each team plays one match at home and another away, which disrupts competitive balance and gives an unjustified sporting advantage to the clubs benefiting from this strange move.
They pointed out in their statement that preserving the integrity of the competition needs all matches to be played under equal conditions for all teams and that any arbitrary amendment to this formula hits competitiveness fairness and result legitimacy, leaves an open door for exceptions driven by non-sporting interests which may then interfere with sports justice and impact on championship equitability.
Real Madrid Full compliance with national and international rules governing competitions of a qualifying nature became clear that such changes require the prior approval by a proper consensus, so clubs can submit their intents to move forward.
It said it had made three specific moves to fight the plan.
Claiming more than €250m in damages and requesting FIFA to prohibit the match from taking place outside of Spain unless all clubs that are set to participate agree.
Direct in the direction of UEFA to pressure Spanish federation to withdraw or reject request, after it was decided in 2018 that official domestic competition matches should not be held outside country, save for rare exceptions — just like this case
Rogues to the NCAA: Despite being 13 against, requesting for it not to be allowed and demanding that the Higher Sports Council does not grant the necessary administrative license so they cannot carry out the decision without unanimity of clubs.
Finally, Real Madrid proclaimed that it will do whatever is in its power to defend the due process and the rule of law which guarantee the fundamental freedom and equality of all competitors; such principles are a permanent pillar of Real Madrid, who will take any legal action necessary to prevent unfair or unjust actions.
