FC Barcelona File Complaint To UEFA Over Controversial Decision

FC Barcelona have formally lodged a complaint with UEFA following controversial refereeing decisions in their recent UEFA Champions League quarterfinal clash against Atlético Madrid.

In a statement released by the club, Barcelona confirmed that their legal team submitted the complaint on the same day, citing concerns that officiating during the first leg failed to comply with the laws of the game and directly influenced both the flow of the match and its final outcome.

The complaint focuses on a key incident in the 54th minute. According to Barcelona, play had already been correctly restarted when an Atlético Madrid player handled the ball inside their own penalty area. Despite the apparent infringement, no penalty was awarded, and the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) did not intervene.

Barcelona have described the situation as a “major error,” arguing that the lack of action from both the on-field officials and VAR significantly impacted the match. As part of their complaint, the club has requested that UEFA open a formal investigation into the incident, provide access to refereeing communications, and, if appropriate, issue an official acknowledgment of any mistakes along with corrective measures.

Beyond the single incident, Barcelona also raised broader concerns about officiating standards in Europe’s premier club competition. The club claimed that similar controversial decisions in recent Champions League campaigns have repeatedly gone against them, suggesting what they perceive as a “clear double standard” that has hindered their ability to compete on equal terms with other clubs.

Atlético Madrid went on to win the Camp Nou fixture 2-0.

UEFA has yet to publicly respond to the complaint.

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