La Liga Rejects Real Madrid’s Season Opener Postponement Request, Tensions Rise

A growing dispute between Real Madrid and La Liga has erupted after the league reportedly rejected the club’s request to postpone their opening match of the 2025/26 La Liga season, following their involvement in the FIFA Club World Cup final.

What Happened?

According to Spanish radio station Cadena SER, La Liga president Javier Tebas refused to grant Real Madrid’s request to delay the first match of the new domestic season, despite the club’s deep run in FIFA’s revamped Club World Cup. Tebas reportedly stated there was no binding agreement to accommodate the Club World Cup calendar.

Real Madrid Claims Prior Agreement

Real Madrid insists that an agreement had been reached between La Liga, the Spanish Footballers’ Association (AFE), and the clubs to postpone fixtures if a Madrid-based team advanced to the World Cup final.

According to sources:

• The AFE confirmed the agreement in an email dated May 16.
• The pact was later reinforced during a joint phone call, in which Dani Carvajal (Real Madrid) and Koke (Atlético Madrid) represented their respective clubs.
• Real Madrid and Osasuna their opponent in the first round have already mutually agreed to reschedule their match.

However, La Liga maintains that no official decision or public confirmation was ever made by Javier Tebas, and it argues that the circumstances do not meet the criteria for rescheduling under current league regulations.

Who Decides Now?

The final ruling will fall to the Sole Judge of the Competition Committee, which is overseen by the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF). This independent body has the authority to override La Liga’s stance and approve a postponement if deemed appropriate.

Why the Tension?

Tebas has previously expressed strong opposition to FIFA’s expanded Club World Cup, criticizing its impact on domestic leagues and scheduling. His firm stance has added fuel to the fire between Spain’s top clubs and the league’s leadership, with many clubs feeling unsupported on the global stage.