Laporta's Fierce Critique of Referee Post Barcelona's Champions League Exit
Synopsis
In a passionate response to FC Barcelona's elimination from the UEFA Champions League, president Joan Laporta condemns the officiating led by referee Clement Turpin. Despite a 2-1 win in the second leg against Atletico Madrid, aggregate scores saw Barcelona bow out, leading to a fierce critique of the VAR decisions and key referee calls.
Key Takeaways
Joan Laporta criticizes referee Clement Turpin for poor officiating.
Barcelona eliminated despite a 2-1 win, losing 3-2 on aggregate.
Frustration over lack of yellow cards for Atletico Madrid's fouls.
Laporta questions VAR's impact on crucial decisions.
Barcelona's quest for Champions League glory continues after 11 years.
Barcelona, April 15 (NationPress) FC Barcelona president Joan Laporta vehemently criticizes referee Clement Turpin after his team’s exit from the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals against Atletico Madrid. Although Barcelona managed a 2-1 victory in the match, they were eliminated with a 3-2 aggregate score, with Laporta attributing the loss partially to what he deems substandard officiating during the encounter at the Metropolitano Stadium.
“I extend my congratulations to Atletico Madrid for advancing to the semifinals; however, this does not justify the disgraceful refereeing we witnessed yesterday, including issues with VAR, which is simply intolerable,” Laporta expressed during a press conference at the Conde de Godo tennis tournament in Barcelona on Wednesday, as reported by Xinhua.
He voiced his discontent over numerous key calls, highlighting that Atletico committed 15 fouls without a single player receiving a yellow card, while Barcelona found themselves a man down for the second time in the two-legged tie. Eric Garcia was shown a red card for a challenge on Alexander Sorloth, with the referee deeming him the last defender.
Laporta also recalled incidents from the first leg, where Pau Cubarsi was sent off before halftime for a foul on Giuliano Simeone.
“In the initial match, we were denied a clear penalty, and one of our players was sent off when it should have only been a yellow card. Giuliano didn’t control the ball properly. The referee initially made the correct call, but VAR intervened and altered the decision,” Laporta stated.
He further criticized the red card issued to Garcia, arguing that Jules Kounde could have covered the play, indicating that Garcia was not the last defender. Additionally, he questioned an offside call that disallowed a goal from Ferran Torres and a potential penalty for Dani Olmo. Another controversial moment involved Fermin Lopez, who needed medical attention after being struck by the studs of goalkeeper Juan Musso while attempting a header.
“Ferran’s goal was valid. The penalty against Olmo was indeed a penalty. Regarding Fermin’s incident, it’s unacceptable to see a young player suffer while being treated on the pitch,” Laporta concluded.
Following this defeat, Barcelona's quest to reclaim the Champions Trophy continues, marking an 11-year wait, while Atletico Madrid advances to the semifinals, hoping to secure their first Champions League title after finishing as runners-up three times.
Point of View
Highlighting the need for accountability in sports officiating.
NationPress
3 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Joan Laporta say about the refereeing?
Laporta described the refereeing by Clement Turpin and the VAR decisions as a disgrace and intolerable, criticizing the lack of yellow cards for Atletico Madrid despite multiple fouls.
Why was Eric Garcia sent off?
Eric Garcia received a red card for a challenge deemed as last-man foul on Alexander Sorloth during the match against Atletico Madrid.
What incidents did Laporta refer to from the first leg?
Laporta mentioned a denied penalty and Pau Cubarsi's dismissal, criticizing VAR for overturning the initial correct decision regarding a yellow card.
What are Barcelona's current challenges in the Champions League?
Barcelona's elimination marks an 11-year wait to lift the Champions Trophy, underscoring their ongoing struggles in achieving success in this prestigious tournament.
How did Atletico Madrid perform in the match?
Atletico Madrid advanced to the semifinals despite losing 2-1 in the second leg, securing a 3-2 aggregate win over Barcelona.
