FC Barcelona have had their complaint over a disputed handball incident against Atletico Madrid rejected by UEFA following their UEFA Champions League quarter-final first-leg clash.
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The incident involved Atletico defender Marc Pubill, who appeared to handle the ball inside his own six-yard box after receiving a pass back from goalkeeper Juan Musso.
Barcelona players immediately appealed for a penalty, while manager Hansi Flick was left furious on the touchline over the lack of intervention from both the referee and VAR.
UEFA declare complaint “inadmissible”
Despite Barcelona formally submitting a protest to UEFA, the governing body ruled the complaint inadmissible without providing detailed reasoning for the decision.
The Catalan club had argued that the incident warranted either a penalty or a second yellow card for Pubill, claiming that the officials failed to apply the IFAB rules correctly during the match.
However, UEFA’s Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body confirmed the matter would not be taken further, effectively closing the case, reports Football Espana.
Barcelona’s frustration was compounded by Flick’s post-match comments, where he questioned the purpose of VAR and expressed disbelief that the incident was not reviewed.
Atletico boss Diego Simeone dismissed concerns over refereeing influence, insisting his focus remained on football rather than officiating decisions.
The controversy adds further tension ahead of the second leg, though UEFA’s ruling ensures no disciplinary action or replay consideration will follow the complaint.
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