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May 13, 2026 – General –
A controversial press conference by Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez has drawn widespread criticism from journalists and media commentators after remarks described as sexist and personally targeted against members of the press, intensifying debate over media relations in Spanish football.
According to reports, Pérez used the briefing to defend his leadership of Real Madrid following a difficult season, but the tone shifted as he launched a forceful attack on sections of the media. He accused journalists of bias against the club and singled out female reporters in comments that were widely interpreted as dismissive of their professionalism and expertise.
The reaction from journalists was immediate, with several describing the remarks as unacceptable and indicative of a broader pattern of hostility toward the press. One of the reporters directly referenced in the fallout publicly responded, expressing shock at being singled out and defending her right to critique the club’s management and performance without personal attacks.
Media outlets and commentators across Spain and beyond reported that the press conference quickly escalated beyond football governance into a broader controversy about sexism and media accountability. Some journalists argued that the comments reflect a growing trend of confrontational rhetoric toward the press, particularly in high-pressure sporting environments where institutional criticism is common.
The incident has also reignited discussion about the treatment of women in sports journalism, with critics highlighting that female reporters often face disproportionate targeting and questioning in public forums. Observers note that such exchanges can contribute to a chilling effect, where journalists feel pressured or discouraged from pursuing critical lines of inquiry.
Supporters of Pérez, however, argue that his comments were directed at what he perceives as persistent negative coverage of Real Madrid rather than journalists’ gender. They maintain that tensions between the club and media have intensified due to ongoing controversies surrounding performance, refereeing disputes, and institutional disagreements within Spanish football.
The episode adds to a growing list of contentious interactions between Real Madrid leadership and the press, underscoring the increasingly strained relationship between elite football institutions and media scrutiny in Spain.
Reference –
https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/real-madrid-president-makes-sexist-191500929.html
https://www.givemesport.com/journalist-reaction-florentino-perez-sexist-real-madrid-comments/
Real Madrid President makes sexist comments during press conference calling elections
