Sports
Amid ongoing developments and the controversy surrounding the sports and legal files that have recently shaken Spanish football, FC Barcelona issued a detailed official statement to comment on recent reports regarding the reactivation of UEFA's proceedings concerning the Negreira case. The Catalan club aimed to clarify all aspects surrounding this sensitive file, firmly stating that the case has never been reopened and explaining that official investigations have been ongoing since 2023 without ever being closed at any stage. Barcelona emphasized in its official statement that UEFA's latest statement did not include any announcement regarding the opening, reopening, or reactivation of any new proceedings against the club. It pointed out that the statement merely confirmed the receipt of documents submitted by its traditional rival, Real Madrid, for investigators to evaluate within the framework of the ongoing investigation. The Catalan club clarified the details of the investigation process, stating that UEFA's procedures actually began in 2023 following the appointment of two investigators responsible for taking appropriate measures. Barcelona stressed that it has fully complied throughout this period with all requests issued by them. The club noted that UEFA's statement explicitly used phrases such as "ongoing investigation" and "continuous review," proving that the case was never closed to begin with. Barcelona added that the European body's statement did not contain any assessment of the content or legal value of the documents submitted by Real Madrid, limiting itself to acknowledging their receipt and subjection to review by ethics and disciplinary inspectors. Regarding next steps, Barcelona stated that decisions rest solely with UEFA investigators, noting that they have not yet issued any new requests to the club nor forwarded Real Madrid's complaint to Barcelona. The club stated that upon receiving any new requests or formal complaints, it will respond in accordance with established procedures, just as it has done since the beginning of the case. This clarification follows Real Madrid's announcement that its complaint to UEFA included numerous documents and evidence regarding payments received by Jose Maria Enriquez Negreira, former vice-president of the Spanish FA's technical committee of referees, arguing that these facts affect the integrity of competition. In its legal response, Barcelona noted that European procedures are subject, under applicable legislation, to the outcome of the criminal case currently being handled in Spain. The Catalan club also cited its consistent receipt of a UEFA license to participate in European competitions since the investigation began, without any objections, confirming its continuous normal participation in European tournaments. Concluding its statement, FC Barcelona renewed its commitment to full cooperation with all relevant authorities, while sending a clear message to media outlets urging rigor and accuracy when reporting on this case, especially amid the controversy sparked by UEFA's latest announcement and Real Madrid's utilization of the documents submitted to the European governing body.
