Barcelona files formal complaint with UEFA over Champions League officiating

FC Barcelona has submitted a formal complaint to UEFA regarding the officiating during their 2-0 quarter-final first-leg loss to Atletico Madrid. Barcelona vice president Rafael Yuste expressed deep dissatisfaction with referee Istvan Kovacs and VAR official Christian Dingert. The club specifically disputes the failure to award a penalty in their favor and has raised concerns regarding the dismissal of Pau Cubarsi. Reports suggest that UEFA, specifically refereeing chief Roberto Rosetti, is dissatisfied with Kovacs' performance and may exclude him from officiating further matches this season. While Barcelona remains critical of the decision-making process, the club is currently preparing for the return leg and an upcoming La Liga match against Espanyol. Yuste stated that the club is determined to highlight these officiating inconsistencies to promote improvement in the sport. The club cited similar past grievances during a domestic cup match at the same venue.