La Liga have done it again.
An organisation that routinely limp from one disaster to the next have really outdone themselves this time.
On Sunday at the RCDE Stadium, Espanyol held Barcelona to a 1-1 draw in the Catalan derby but the sub-plot to the main event was of far more interest.
Gerard Pique equalised late on for Barca and his celebratory gesture was to put his finger to his lips; essentially telling the crowd to pipe down.
Perhaps it was inflammatory, but when taken in context of the vile abuse from the stands directed at his family, it’s entirely understandable.
Further, Samuel Umtiti was allegedly the victim of racist language from Espanyol’s Sergio Garcia.
La Liga chief, Javier Tebas, in his wisdom (or lack of it), has decided to overlook the racism and chanting at Pique and instead focus on the defender’s gesture which, he alleges, could see Pique landed with a ban of up to three games.
We mustn’t forget of course that this is the man who decided that the Spanish top flight didn’t need VAR until so much pressure was put on him that he was backed into a corner.
This clown is also responsible for not allowing the timings for La Liga’s fixtures to be agreed until a fortnight before the games are to be played.
Fine if you’re a local, not so if you’re a connoisseur from abroad who fancies experiencing some of the best football that Europe has to offer.
Such decisions make a mockery of the brand, so is it any wonder that they continue to struggle to be as successful as the Premier League in certain territories?
The most recent example of Tebas’ insouciance is surely one of the worst.
He had the perfect platform and opportunity to come out and denounce the chanting and racist language, but this self-confessed Real Madrid supporter, preferred to take Barcelona to task - again, for the actions of one of their players.
It’s a wonder he remains in office because of his club allegiance as much as his failings in the role. Surely impartiality is a pre-requisite?!
Pique will now miss the second leg of the Copa del Rey semi-final because of a horrible late challenge from Gerard Moreno that’s not really been spoken about either.
Leaving the centre-back writhing on the turf, it looked to be some sort of retribution from the striker, but Tebas has swerved any questions on the same. Cowardly.
Bias or not, as chief of his organisation, he must be seen to be treating all clubs fairly, with respect and dealing with situations arising accordingly.
We can but dream…
