In an unexpected turn of events that has sparked controversy, Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez has reportedly made statements that have shaken both the football world and society at large. According to a post on the social media platform X, Pérez reportedly stated that the club will not sell tickets for Real Madrid matches to fans who identify as part of the LGBT community. This statement, if true, sets an unprecedented precedent in the club’s recent history and has sparked a heated debate about the values of inclusion and non-discrimination in sport.
Real Madrid, one of the most prestigious clubs in the world, with a legion of fans spanning every continent, has always been seen as a symbol of sporting excellence and universal values. However, these alleged statements by Pérez have called into question the club’s stance on issues of equality and diversity. The information, which has not yet been officially confirmed by the club or Pérez himself, comes from a source on social media, raising doubts about its veracity. However, the mere mention of this stance has provoked an immediate reaction from fans, organizations, and the media.
Football, as a mass sport, has historically been a space where social and political issues have found resonance. In recent years, clubs across Europe have taken visible steps to support the LGBT community, such as lighting up stadiums in rainbow colors or temporarily modifying their crests on social media during Pride Month. In this context, Real Madrid’s reported decision to restrict ticket sales to a specific group of fans seems to run counter to current trends of inclusivity in sport. In 2022, for example, the club was already criticized for not joining campaigns supporting the LGBT community during Pride Day, although it never publicly spoke out against this group.
The reaction on social media has been swift. Numerous users have expressed their outrage, calling Pérez’s alleged statement a setback in the fight for equality. Human rights organizations and LGBT groups have demanded an immediate clarification from Real Madrid, urging the club to reaffirm its commitment to non-discrimination. On the other hand, some more conservative sectors have applauded Pérez’s alleged stance, arguing that the club has the right to maintain its own internal policies. This contrasting opinions reflect the polarization the issue has generated.
From a legal perspective, implementing a measure like the one announced would be problematic. Spanish and European legislation prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation, and such a policy could contravene both national and European Union regulations. In the past, the European Commission has clarified that it does not have the authority to sanction football clubs for such decisions, but social and media pressure could have a significant impact on Real Madrid’s reputation. Furthermore, FIFA and UEFA, football’s governing bodies, promote political and religious neutrality, but also advocate for inclusion and respect for human rights.
Real Madrid’s official silence so far has added further uncertainty to the situation. The club’s official website, usually a reliable source of information, has not issued any statement on the matter, leading to speculation as to whether the statements attributed to Pérez are true or if it is a new wave of misinformation, similar to the hoaxes that circulated in 2022 about alleged EU sanctions against the club for not supporting the LGBT community. At that time, media outlets such as EFE Verifica and Maldita.es denied the claims, calling them fake news.
The controversy comes at a time when Real Madrid is experiencing a golden era in sporting terms, with 56 titles in the last 14 seasons, according to Pérez’s statements at the 2024 General Members’ Meeting. However, this success could be tarnished if the club does not address this situation clearly and quickly. The fans, who are the heart of Real Madrid, deserve an explanation that dispels doubts and reaffirms the values that have made the club an admired institution around the world.
Meanwhile, the international football community is watching closely. The potential exclusion of a group of fans would not only affect Real Madrid’s image but could also set a dangerous precedent in the sport. In an increasingly connected world, where the values of inclusion and diversity are paramount, Real Madrid has the opportunity to lead by example, demonstrating that football is a space for everyone, regardless of their identity.
