La Liga president Javier Tebas has launched a scathing attack on Real Madrid after the club hosted an NFL game at the newly renovated Santiago Bernabéu stadium. Tebas accuses Real Madrid of hypocrisy, pointing out their previous opposition to playing a La Liga match in Miami.
Tebas's outburst comes after his plans for a La Liga game on US soil were scrapped. He took to social media to express his frustration, stating that Real Madrid's decision to host the NFL game was driven by financial gain, despite their earlier concerns about the 'integrity' of playing a match abroad.
Tebas Accuses Real Madrid of Hypocrisy
"We've been hearing for weeks how Sunday will be a 'historic day for Spanish sport' because the NFL will play in Madrid," Tebas wrote. "The most striking thing: the stadium belongs to the same club that led the crusade of 'integrity' against the Miami game ... and now lends it gladly, prior payment of course."
He further alleged that Real Madrid had previously used similar arguments of competition adulteration to oppose the Miami game, even sending letters to various institutions to voice their concerns.
The Miami Game Controversy
The planned La Liga match between Villarreal and Barcelona at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami for the 2025-26 season faced strong opposition from Real Madrid, ultimately leading to its cancellation. Tebas believes that a La Liga game in the US would have been a massive success, a sentiment he reiterated in his recent attack on Real Madrid.
Tebas's frustration is evident as he continues to push for a La Liga game to be played on US soil, despite facing resistance from clubs like Real Madrid. The clash highlights the ongoing power struggles and differing visions within Spanish football.
This isn't the first time Javier Tebas has directed criticism towards Real Madrid in recent months, showcasing a growing tension between the La Liga president and the influential club.