Barcelona files complaints against Atletico Madrid and UEFA officiating

FC Barcelona has expressed formal grievances regarding officiating during the first leg of the Champions League quarterfinals against Atletico Madrid, held on April 8, 2026. The club specifically contested a penalty claim for Dani Olmo, a disallowed goal by Ferran Torres, and the direct red card issued to Eric Garcia in the 79th minute. Additionally, Barcelona lodged a formal complaint with UEFA on April 13, 2026, which the organization rejected as inadmissible. Atletico Madrid also complained regarding an incident involving Gavi, where the host club felt a red card was warranted for an elbow. Separately, manager Hansi Flick raised concerns with UEFA regarding the pitch conditions at the Metropolitano stadium ahead of the return leg. Flick alleged that the grass was too long and dry, potentially hindering ball speed, while Atletico maintains that the pitch height remains within the 3cm regulatory limit.