Laporta: Real Madrid TV's Referee Pressure Tactics Lack Class, Barça Will Not Be Affected

October 26th Report – This weekend, Barcelona President Joan Laporta visited Lepe, Huelva, to attend the 15th Congress of Barça Fan Clubs in Andalusia, Ceuta, and Melilla. During his speech on Saturday, he addressed several topics and current situations.  

**On the Club's Current State**  
The club's current situation is better than before. We have never been swayed by doomsday predictions. The board members and I are working with unprecedented determination to drive Barça's comprehensive revival across all areas. This conviction stems from you – the eternal spiritual backbone of Barça. Please join us in defending the honor of the crest and stand by the team with even more passionate support through challenges.  

**Is there an inspiring message you’d like to convey to Barça fans? What are your thoughts on the upcoming match?**  
The Clásico is the ultimate showdown, and every player aspires to showcase their best in such a game. I know our players are filled with fighting spirit. Whoever takes the field, we are confident of victory. I believe they will bring us joy by winning at the Bernabéu, which is gradually becoming a norm for us – just like last year.  

**Do you think the team is fully prepared?**  
We are fighting for the top spot in the league, which undoubtedly gives us extra motivation. In fact, after training yesterday, I had dinner with the team, and I could feel their high morale and intense focus.  

**How does Flick feel about not being able to oversee the game from the bench?**  
The coach understands he cannot be on the sidelines. We submitted a final appeal for a temporary suspension but it was not granted. Although Flick cannot be present, Markus Sorg will take his place. Flick has been encouraging him constantly. Both of them are full of passion.  

I don’t mean to criticize the referees, but there are indeed some situations worth reflecting on. The first yellow card was indeed the referee’s decision, but he seemed to be waiting for the coach’s reaction.  

Naturally, no one is happy when shown a yellow card. In my opinion, this “waiting for a reaction” approach feels somewhat deliberate and could have been avoided. However, Flick has more or less come to terms with it.  

**On Watching the Game from the Bernabéu Box**  
Absolutely, it’s one of the best feelings in life. For Barça fans, the Bernabéu itself is filled with passion and anticipation, keeping you entirely focused on the match and the atmosphere. If we can win there, it becomes even more perfect. I’ve been fortunate to experience those classic battles and some other special moments – truly wonderful memories.  

In the box, you really have to restrain yourself, but if we win, such restraint is a pleasure. While everyone says it’s just another match, it never is. It influences the entire landscape. If we win – and I’m convinced the players will give their all to keep us at the top – it will signify our upward trajectory.  

**How Do You View the Cancellation of the Miami Match?**  
We respect La Liga’s decision, but I disagree with their view that such an event distorts league competition. I do not share that opinion. Moreover, we have maintained an excellent winning streak at the Estadio de la Cerámica against Villarreal. That match was intended to promote La Liga and generate substantial revenue, which would benefit the entire league.  

**Would This Have Been a Significant Achievement?**  
Without a doubt, all participating clubs would have gained certain benefits, as it would have brought sponsorship opportunities and served as a way to promote Barça’s brand. The proposal was initially made to us, and we thought it was a good idea, so we decided to participate.  

The reactions from the players’ union, the players themselves, and subsequently Real Madrid taking the matter to the Spanish Superior Sports Council (CSD) are all justified in their own right – everyone is doing what they believe is necessary. However, I believe this has cast a negative light on La Liga.  

**On the Upcoming Clásico**  
The entire team is prepared for this pinnacle clash, and we firmly believe our players will deliver victory. Certain opponents’ tactics of manipulating public opinion and pressuring referees through their television channel truly lack class. Barça never indulges in a victim mentality. Our sole objective tomorrow is to conquer the Bernabéu!