Atlético Demands Answers from Spanish Referee Committee
Atlético Madrid has asked the Spanish Referee Committee for a formal explanation. The request follows the retraction of Gerard Martín’s red card after a VAR intervention.
The contested decisions
Gerard Martín saw his red card overturned following communication from VAR official José María Sánchez Martínez. The intervention came from Melero López in the VOR room.
Atlético also highlighted other expulsions in the same game. The club questions why similar incidents receive different rulings.
VAR audio and procedural concerns
Club officials obtained audio from the VOR that alarmed them. They say the tone and guidance constrained the on-field referee before review.
Atlético argues the VAR has been used beyond clear-error scenarios. They contend officials were told it would be reserved only for manifest mistakes.
What the VOR reportedly communicated
According to club sources, the VOR described the Barca player’s action as a play on the ball. The message suggested the contact occurred as part of normal play.
That assessment influenced the decision not to uphold the red. Atlético believes this contradicts previously stated criteria.
Precedent and inconsistency
The club points to a play reviewed five matchdays earlier. Valentín Gómez’s challenge on Ratiu in Betis vs Rayo was presented as an example needing a red.
Atlético asks why identical actions received different outcomes. The inconsistency fuels their demand for clarity.
Club reaction and public stance
Diego Simeone acknowledged that referees can err. Still, the club demands predictable application of rules.
Atlético staged a symbolic ‘Tiempo de Revisión’ protest. They seek a clear, public response from the officials.
Relations with referees
The club recalled support given to referee Munuera Montero in a prior controversy. They say that context makes the current judgment more surprising.
Atlético wants assurances that all teams compete on equal terms. Filmogaz.com notes the club now awaits an official reply from the CTA.
In short, Atlético demands answers from the Spanish Referee Committee to restore trust. The club expects a detailed justification of the differing criteria.
