Referee Who Dismissed Jude Bellingham Speaks Out Amid Ongoing Investigation
Jose Luis Munuera Montero, the referee who recently issued a red card to Jude Bellingham during Real Madrid’s draw with Osasuna, has spoken out after an investigation was launched. The incident occurred during a league match when Bellingham was sent off in the 39th minute following a brief exchange with Montero.
The decision caught many by surprise, but replays showed Bellingham had spoken to the referee moments before receiving the red card. Spanish TV channel Movistar then released footage showing the Madrid star swearing, and Bellingham clarified the situation, explaining that he had indeed sworn, but not at the referee. He said, “I said it to myself (F**k off), not to the referee. I had already turned away. It’s hard when the referee claims I insulted him, when I clearly didn’t. I’m glad the videos came out as evidence, which contradict the match report.”
This isn’t the first time Bellingham has clashed with Montero. After the red card, more footage surfaced showing earlier tensions between the two. Following the incident, the Spanish Football Federation launched a full investigation, and Montero has now addressed the situation publicly for the first time.
In a statement shared via Relevo, Montero denied any corruption allegations and vowed to take legal action against the media. He wrote, “Recently, there’s been an excessive attack on referees, with me at the center this time. My company, Talentus Sports Speakers, has never billed any sports entity. I will pursue civil and criminal actions against those who spread false or biased information, damaging my reputation and privacy.”
Due to the ongoing investigation, Montero has been temporarily suspended from officiating upcoming La Liga and European competitions. He also discussed the impact the controversy has had on his family, revealing the emotional toll it has taken. “I’ve been confined at home all day. It’s been hard. My family, especially my 80-year-old father, is struggling with all the pressure. Today he went to church. It’s getting out of hand,” Montero shared.
