WHAT HAPPENED?
The case revolved around whether Real Madrid and Barcelona could claim exclusive rights to the name of their historic rivalry, widely regarded as the biggest domestic fixture in world football. According to The Athletic, Madrid’s Audiencia Provincial court determined that La Liga’s prior registration of “ELCLÁSICO” in May 2023 with Spain’s Oficina Española de Patentes y Marcas (Oepm) gave the governing body sole commercial control over the term.
THE BIGGER PICTURE
This ruling is the latest episode in an ongoing power struggle between La Liga and its two most dominant clubs. Since Javier Tebas took over as La Liga president in 2013, conflicts over commercial rights have frequently emerged, particularly concerning revenue distribution and broadcasting regulations. One of Tebas’s key initiatives was the introduction of collective TV rights sales, replacing the previous system where clubs negotiated their own deals. While this change led to greater overall revenue for Spanish football, Madrid, in particular, has expressed frustration at losing the ability to sell their matches individually, which they believe would be more lucrative.
DID YOU KNOW?
Real Madrid have also distanced itself from some of La Liga’s newer broadcasting policies. For example, the club have refused to participate in voluntary media initiatives introduced since the 2023-24 season, such as allowing cameras into the dressing room before matches or conducting player interviews during halftime. This refusal has financial consequences, as Madrid reportedly forfeits around €13 million (£10.75 million) annually in withheld TV revenue as a result.
During the 2023-24 season, La Liga generated approximately €1.49 billion in TV revenue. Barcelona received the highest share at €162.49 million, while Madrid followed closely behind with €159.55 million, despite winning the league title.
WHAT NEXT?
As tensions between La Liga and its most influential clubs persist, this latest ruling represents another chapter in an ongoing battle for commercial and financial control in Spanish football. Despite the setback, Madrid and Barcelona still have the option to challenge the ruling through an appeal.