The Spanish Football Federation's technical committee for referees released audio recordings of conversations between VAR officials during the Madrid derby between Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid. The match, which took place on September 21, 2026, ended with a 2-1 win for Atletico Madrid. The recordings revealed interventions in two instances, including the cancellation of a yellow card given to Real Madrid's Jude Bellingham.
According to the released recordings, the referee reviewed a situation where Bellingham was given a yellow card, but after consulting with VAR officials, it was determined that the Real Madrid player had touched the ball first, leading to the card being changed. In another instance, VAR intervened to change a yellow card to a red card for Atletico Madrid's goalkeeper, after a review showed that the goalkeeper was not in a position to reach the ball.
The recordings did not include any audio related to a controversial incident involving Real Madrid's Federico Valverde, as VAR did not intervene in that situation. The incident had sparked debate, but the federation only released recordings of instances where VAR officials actively intervened. The match was marked by controversy, with Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho criticizing the referee's decisions after the game.
Real Madrid suffered their second loss under Mourinho this season, with the team now having 15 points in third place, five points behind leaders Barcelona. Atletico Madrid, on the other hand, moved to 16 points in second place. The match saw goals from Alex Grimaldo and Jonathan David for Atletico, and Antonio Rudiger's goal for Real Madrid was not enough to secure a draw.
After the match, Real Madrid announced that Valverde had suffered a severe bruise on his left ankle and would undergo further tests. The incident added to the controversy surrounding the match, with Mourinho expressing his frustration with the referee's decisions. Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone also spoke out, emphasizing the need for respect between teams and officials.
The release of the VAR room conversations provides insight into the decision-making process during the match, but the controversy surrounding the incidents continues. The Spanish Football Federation's decision to release the recordings aims to increase transparency, but it remains to be seen how it will impact future matches and the use of VAR technology.
Key points from the match include: - The Spanish Football Federation released audio recordings of VAR room conversations during the Madrid derby. - VAR intervened in two instances during the match, including the cancellation of a yellow card and the issuance of a red card. - Real Madrid's Federico Valverde was not involved in any VAR incidents that led to changes in the game.
Key points
- The Spanish Football Federation released audio recordings of VAR room conversations during the Madrid derby.
- VAR intervened in two instances during the match.
- Real Madrid's Federico Valverde was not involved in any VAR incidents that led to changes in the game.
