Hernández Hernández Dropped as El Clásico Referee

Hernández Hernández Dropped as El Clásico Referee

The refereeing controversy surrounding El Clásico has taken another dramatic turn, with reports claiming that Alejandro Hernández Hernández will not officiate the upcoming showdown between Barcelona and Real Madrid after his possible appointment was leaked.

According to Spanish newspaper Marca, journalist Roberto Gómez reported that the Technical Committee of Referees (CTA) had initially considered Hernández Hernández for the high-profile fixture. However, the situation reportedly changed after José Mourinho publicly questioned why the referee’s name had become known so far in advance.

The latest development adds another layer of tension ahead of one of the most anticipated matches of the La Liga season.

Mourinho’s objections reportedly influence decision

Mourinho had expressed surprise that the identity of a potential referee was circulating weeks before the match. The Portuguese coach questioned the early disclosure, arguing that referee appointments are normally announced much closer to kickoff.

According to Gómez’s account on Radio MARCA, the committee had initially favoured Hernández Hernández because of his experience. However, the leak and the resulting public debate reportedly prompted officials to reconsider their plans.

Gómez suggested that the committee did not want the appointment to provide Mourinho with further grounds for criticism.

The report has sparked discussion among supporters, with some questioning whether public pressure should influence decisions made by refereeing authorities. Nevertheless, there is no publicly confirmed evidence that Mourinho’s objections were the sole reason for the reported change.

Why Hernández Hernández was under scrutiny

Hernández Hernández is an experienced Spanish referee who has previously officiated several Barcelona–Real Madrid encounters. His history in El Clásico has attracted attention, particularly following controversial decisions in previous meetings.

News of his possible appointment had already generated debate among supporters before the latest report emerged. The leak placed the official under the spotlight before the refereeing committee had publicly confirmed its final selection.

The situation highlights the difficulties facing refereeing authorities when confidential appointment information becomes public prematurely. Even before the match begins, the discussion can shift from the players and tactics to the identity and record of the referee.

Who will referee Barcelona vs Real Madrid?

Barcelona and Real Madrid are scheduled to meet on Sunday, October 25, 2026, at Spotify Camp Nou. With both clubs competing for important league points, the match carries significant sporting importance.

As of the latest reporting, the identity of the eventual referee remains unconfirmed publicly. No replacement should be treated as official until the relevant authorities announce the appointment.

The controversy also raises broader questions about transparency and the independence of refereeing decisions. While clubs and managers are entitled to express concerns, appointment decisions ultimately belong to the responsible refereeing body.

For now, attention remains on whether the reported change will be confirmed and who will be selected to oversee Spanish football’s biggest rivalry.

Source: Marca, reporting by Pablo Villa based on comments from journalist Roberto Gómez. The reported change and its alleged connection to Mourinho’s objections have not been independently confirmed by an official CTA announcement.