The Spanish football federation (RFEF) has launched an investigation into referee José Luis Munuera Montero, who recently made headlines for sending off Real Madrid star Jude Bellingham during Saturday's 1-1 draw against Osasuna.
The investigation comes amid allegations in Spanish media that Munuera's company, 'Talentus Sports Speakers,' had maintained business relationships with various football organizations, including LaLiga, the RFEF, UEFA, and several football clubs.
Responding to these claims on Tuesday, the RFEF released a statement saying, "In compliance with the codes of good governance that govern all actions of the Royal Spanish Football Federation, the Regulatory Compliance Committee has begun an analysis of all the information that has appeared regarding the First Division referee José Luis Munuera Montero."
Munuera strongly denied the allegations through an Instagram post, stating that his company "had not invoiced any amount to any sporting entity" since its establishment. He explained that Talentus Sports Speakers, founded less than a year ago, aims to facilitate athletes in sharing sports values through personal experiences. The referee also addressed the company's LinkedIn portal, Talentus Sports Recruitment, clarifying that it serves to connect young post-university students with job opportunities, all without compensation from any organizations.
The controversy has intensified existing tensions surrounding Spanish football officiating. Real Madrid executives recently visited RFEF headquarters to discuss their concerns about refereeing standards, particularly regarding their 1-0 defeat at Espanyol on February 1. The club had the opportunity to review audio recordings of conversations between officials during this meeting.
Adding another dimension to the dispute, Atlético Madrid publicly backed the referees on Tuesday, posting on social media: "The machinery has been running for several weeks, and crushes everything in its path. Let's see who is the brave one who delivers justice, knowing that they could be next," accompanied by the hashtag "Stop Refereeing Harassment Now."
Munuera has indicated his intention to pursue legal action against media outlets that have "intentionally or recklessly disseminated falsehoods, or incorrect or biased information," claiming these reports have caused "irreparable damage" to referees' professional reputation.
