Generic selectors
Exact matches only
Search in title
Search in content
Post Type Selectors
Generic selectors
Exact matches only
Search in title
Search in content
Post Type Selectors

Why Real Madrid’s Bernabeu is the only LaLiga stadium exempt from a new 2026‑27 rule

Why Real Madrid’s Bernabeu is the only LaLiga stadium exempt from a new 2026‑27 rule
View inside the Bernabeu in Madrid, Spain - Photo via IMAGO / AFLOSPORT

LaLiga has introduced a new refereeing protocol designed to give supporters greater insight into officials' decisions during matches.

However, Real Madrid's Bernabeu will be the only stadium excluded from the changes during the 2026/27 season.

Referees won't be interviewed at the Bernabeu this season

Referees will be interviewed before and after matches at 19 LaLiga stadiums this season as part of a new transparency initiative, but the Bernabeu has been granted an exemption.

According to reports in Spain, the reason is related to Madrid's restrictions concerning broadcasters' connections at the stadium.

The new protocol will allow officials to speak during broadcasts and provide explanations around decisions made during games, to improve transparency around refereeing.

The change comes after years of intense debate surrounding officials and VAR in Spanish football, but viewers watching Real Madrid's home matches will not receive the same access.

The Bernabeu will be the only stadium where referees won't be interviewed this season
The Bernabeu will be the only stadium where referees won't be interviewed this season – Photo via IMAGO / AgenciaLOF

The Bernabeu is the only LaLiga stadium excluded from the initiative, meaning the other 19 venues, including the Camp Nou, are expected to participate.

That creates an unusual situation where the level of access to referees can depend on the stadium in which a match is being played.

For Madrid supporters, potentially controversial decisions during home matches will not receive the same immediate explanation available elsewhere.

Unless an agreement is reached over the broadcasting restrictions, the Bernabeu will therefore operate outside a league-wide transparency initiative for the coming season.

FGG says: The exception is far from ideal

The whole point of the new protocol is to improve transparency, so having one stadium operate under different rules is hardly ideal.

Real Madrid could miss out on explanations for controversial decisions in half of their LaLiga fixtures, which is likely to keep this issue in the spotlight whenever a contentious call goes against Los Blancos at home.

Lewis joined as News and Features Editor in July 2025, having previously held senior roles at Snack Media and GRV Media. A passionate follower of sport, in particular football and golf, as well as a proud Aldershot Town supporter, he brings over six years of experience in the digital sports publishing space.

Articles: 1082