UEFA has confirmed it received a substantial amount of documents from Real Madrid related to the Negreira case involving Barcelona. The governing body's Ethics and Disciplinary Inspectors will now assess the material as part of a review that has been ongoing since 2023. UEFA stated it is currently in the process of evaluating the documentation received.
Barcelona stated that UEFA's confirmation simply notes the receipt of documentation and does not represent new or reopened proceedings. The club said the investigation was initiated three years ago and has never been closed. "The text refers to an investigation and a review that are 'ongoing'," Barcelona said, adding that investigators have not yet forwarded Real Madrid's complaint to the club or made any new requests. The club reiterated its full willingness to collaborate with UEFA and expressed confidence that the investigation will confirm the club's complete innocence.
Real Madrid urges urgent conclusion
Real Madrid called for the process to move swiftly, citing concerns over the integrity of competition. In an official statement, the club described its complaint as containing extensive documentation on events of "extraordinary seriousness" that affect confidence in the refereeing system. The club's complaint was formally submitted to UEFA on April 25.
"Real Madrid C.F. considers it essential that, now that UEFA has this documentation, the investigation proceeds with the utmost urgency until its full conclusion," the club said. It pledged to continue collaborating with UEFA to clarify events it deems incompatible with fair play. The club's statement emphasized that the facts in question are of a gravity that could undermine the fundamental principle of sporting integrity across European football.
Background and potential consequences
The Negreira case involves allegations that Barcelona paid over €7 million to companies linked to former refereeing official José María Enriquez Negreira over two decades. Barcelona maintains the payments were for technical reports on referees and players, while Real Madrid insists they led to favorable decisions. A parallel criminal case is being heard in Spain, where Barcelona, former club officials, and Negreira face charges of bribery.
Under UEFA regulations, if found guilty of violating integrity rules, Barcelona could face a one-season ban from the Champions League. UEFA can act independently of national legal outcomes. Barcelona, who last won the competition in 2015, have continued to participate in UEFA tournaments while under investigation. The club's current president, Joan Laporta, has consistently denied any wrongdoing, asserting the payments were for legitimate consultancy work.
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