The Harsh Statement from Referees Against Mateu Lahoz

The Technical Committee of Referees (CTA) has responded to the statements made by Antonio Mateu Lahoz on March 16, when he expressed regret that a referee like Ricardo de Burgos Bengoextea had not collaborated with Negreira's son, suggesting that those who did fared well in UEFA. The refereeing committee did not want to remain silent and issued a strong response. It does not sit well with them that Mateu Lahoz speaks of those who associated with Negreira's son benefiting, when, in the referees' opinion, the Valencian "spent his entire career during the period he refers to, achieving results well known to all." Furthermore, they invite Mateu to share any information he has with the authorities instead of further fuelling doubts about the refereeing system.

All matters related to the controversy with referees are at their peak. There is a wave of opinions unfavourable to referees from players, coaches, and even some directors of Spanish First Division teams. However, what bothers the refereeing community the most is that a former colleague makes statements against them. This is highlighted as follows: "It is a shame to see someone with whom we shared a dressing room for so many years trying to generate hatred and discredit the group he once belonged to."

In recent hours, Iturralde González has added fuel to the fire, if that is possible. The other former referee commented on Ser that the statement fell short. Iturralde agrees with the tone of the discourse. He asserts that it is a serious matter to claim that those officiating in Europe do so for non-sporting reasons. Additionally, he insinuated that Mateu's sporting achievements are the result of the same system he is criticising. Finally, he declared that what the refereeing community needs is for the 'Negreira case' to be clarified once and for all and for the verdict to be delivered. As long as there is so much uncertainty surrounding this issue, controversies will continue to arise.