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The Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) has launched a wide-ranging overhaul of its refereeing leadership, parting ways with several top officials, including Luis Medina Cantalejo, president of the Technical Committee of Referees (CTA), and Carlos Clos Gómez, director of VAR operations.
The decision, confirmed on Thursday, marks the beginning of a comprehensive restructuring process in response to sustained criticism over refereeing standards and VAR usage during the past season.
"This decision reflects the desire to open a new era in the field of refereeing, in line with the work carried out by the refereeing system reform group, which includes representatives from the refereeing community, professional clubs, and the Federation itself," the RFEF said in an official statement.
"This space for dialogue and proposals has helped lay the foundations for a more modern, efficient model adapted to the current needs of Spanish football."
The RFEF expressed its gratitude to Medina Cantalejo and Clos Gómez for their "professionalism and commitment." Other senior members of the refereeing leadership team, including Antonio Rubinos Pérez and three vice presidents, have also stepped down.
The shake-up comes after a turbulent season in which clubs — most vocally Real Madrid — have repeatedly raised concerns about refereeing decisions. Real Madrid TV has consistently aired critical footage of refereeing calls, and the club filed a formal complaint to both the RFEF and the Spanish government's High Sports Council (CSD), alleging "manipulation and adulteration" of the competition following a 1-0 loss to Espanyol.
RFEF president Rafael Louzán had earlier signalled intentions to carry out a structural transformation of the refereeing system. The new leadership framework, to be unveiled on July 2, will introduce a modernised model led by a CEO and a sporting director tasked with reshaping the management of officiating — including performance reviews, promotions, and operational procedures.
Despite the sweeping changes in leadership, the current group of match officials in Spain’s top two divisions will continue in their roles, allowing for on-field continuity during the transitional period.
For many observers, the changes represent the first concrete step toward a long-awaited reform of refereeing in Spanish football.
Featured Image Credit: Unsplash / Max Harlynking, Unsplash / engin akyurt
