Zidane Suspension Controversy: Real Madrid Takes Fight to Spanish Administrative Court
Real Madrid has thrown its full weight behind Zinedine Zidane, following the rejection of the Frenchman’s appeal against a three-month suspension imposed by the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF). The club has now escalated the case to Spain’s Administrative Court of Sport (CAS), seeking a suspensive measure to allow Zidane to continue coaching while the legal process unfolds.
⚖️ The Suspension
Zidane, currently the head coach of Real Madrid Castilla (the club’s reserve side), was suspended after allegations that he lacks the required UEFA coaching license to officially hold the position. According to RFEF regulations, a proper UEFA Pro License is mandatory for such roles. The Spanish press reports that Zidane was acting as head coach without finalizing the necessary certification.
💬 Real Madrid Responds
In an official statement, a Real Madrid spokesperson confirmed:
“The appeal we submitted was rejected, and today we have submitted a request for a suspensive measure to the CAS.”
Real Madrid insists that Zidane was authorized by the French Football Federation (FFF) to work in the category he currently occupies and that UEFA rules permit a coach in training to practice. The club has vowed to exhaust “all legal avenues” to overturn the ruling.
📰 Support from FFF and UEFA Interpretation
The FFF publicly backed Zidane, stating that he is in good standing and “in the process of obtaining the required diploma,” expected to complete it by spring.
UEFA regulations reportedly allow provisional coaching while licenses are being completed—an argument both the FFF and Real Madrid cite as central to their case.
⚠️ Implications for Zidane
This is Zidane’s first major test as a head coach, having only recently begun his managerial journey after a legendary playing career. While the suspension represents a serious bureaucratic obstacle, his reputation remains intact, and Real Madrid’s full backing demonstrates their confidence in his potential.
The CAS decision will be crucial not only for Zidane’s immediate future on the Castilla bench but may also set a precedent for how such licensing issues are handled across European football going forward.
