Fran Soto, head of the Spanish Refereeing Committee, confirmed that international referee Alejandro Cuintero can once again officiate Real Madrid matches, pointing to his complete satisfaction with Cuintero's performance in the Royal team's match against Celta Vigo last Sunday, during the ceremony for awarding the 2026 FIFA badges to international referees.

Soto said: "We are very satisfied with his refereeing, as all decisions related to the play fall under the technical committee's jurisdiction."

He continued: "Of course, he can referee a Real Madrid match again. We try to have every referee officiate at least one match for each club, and we will make the decisions we see fit without any external influence or self-imposed restrictions."

Soto added: "I expected a bit less tension; I see that there is always significant tension, and this is not new this year. I hoped tensions would decrease with the measures we take regarding openness and transparency, but this is something we have to live with. I knew there was this risk in this position and profession, and I take responsibility."

He explained: "I understand that referees must apply the laws; other matters should be evaluated by the relevant authorities. Today is a day to celebrate, as FIFA badges are being awarded, and many cannot attend because there are four Spanish referees in the Champions League, which is a rare occurrence."

He added: "I do not wish to comment on any specific statement from Real Madrid players, as the relevant committees will make the appropriate decisions. Today is not the time for that."

He continued: "I do not see the Bernabeu as a major difficulty for referees; they are prepared and competent to manage matches at any stadium and under any conditions. I have not seen any turning point that affects match refereeing."

He also said: "I ask fans of all teams to respect the referee. There are decisions even the media disagree on, but trust must be placed in the professionalism of referees, and the refereeing level is very good."

He concluded: "We have not spoken with Real Madrid about any specific matter; we must focus on our work with the utmost seriousness. The Refereeing Committee's doors are open to all clubs, and there is no good or bad relationship with any club."