Valencia sports director faces sanctions for tunnel incident against Real Madrid

Valencia sports director Braulio Vázquez faces potential suspension after confronting match officials in the tunnel during halftime of the Real Madrid game.

Valencia sports director Braulio Jesús Vázquez Benítez was involved in an altercation in the tunnel during halftime of the match against Real Madrid. According to the referee's report, Vázquez repeatedly confronted assistant referee Iván Masso Granado in an agitated tone, saying "It's not a foul, it's not a foul! Come on!" He also directed similar comments at referee José Hernández Maeso multiple times while maintaining an exalted attitude. Police had to intervene, identifying him and physically removing him from the area to end the incident.

The RFEF's Disciplinary Committee will now determine the sanction. Based on precedent, Vázquez could face suspension under Article 129 (conduct contrary to sporting order) with a typical penalty of two matches, Article 124 (disrespect toward officials) carrying two to three matches suspension, or Article 123 (insults and provocations) with one to three matches suspension or up to one month.