Real Madrid has formally petitioned UEFA to investigate allegations of systematic corruption against FC Barcelona. The club delivered a comprehensive 500-page dossier accusing their rivals of making secret payments to José María Enríquez Negreira, the former vice-president of Spain’s Technical Committee of Referees.
The submission requests that European football’s governing body consider stripping Barcelona of titles won during the alleged period of misconduct, which spans from 2001 to 2018. Real Madrid claims Barcelona funneled approximately €7 million to €8.4 million to companies linked to Negreira over those 17 years.
While Barcelona maintains the payments were for legitimate consulting services, prosecutors argue they created conflicts of interest capable of influencing match outcomes. Spanish courts initially dismissed bribery charges in May 2024 but later refiled under sports corruption statutes that target structural impropriety rather than specific bribed calls.
UEFA has acknowledged receipt of the dossier but stated no disciplinary action will occur until Spanish courts deliver a final judgment. Meanwhile, Barcelona is exploring legal options against public statements made by Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez regarding the case.