The legal issues surrounding the Santiago Bernabéu have entered a new chapter. The Association of Residents Affected by the Bernabéu has filed a lawsuit against the Madrid City Council over the authorization granted for an NFL game held at Real Madrid’s stadium last November.
Santiago Bernabéu Residents File Lawsuit Over NFL Game
The Association of Residents Affected by the Bernabéu has launched a new legal action against the Madrid City Council over its authorization of last year’s NFL game at the Santiago Bernabéu, questioning whether the event complied with noise regulations.
The neighborhood group argues that the game did not meet the conditions established under national law for exceptions to noise regulations. It also claims that the authorization issued by local authorities did not include all the necessary requirements to justify holding the event.
Residents Question Authorization of NFL Game
One of the central issues in the lawsuit is whether an NFL game can be considered an exceptional event under the criteria established by Spain’s Noise Law.
According to the association, the regulations allow exceptions for events of special official, religious, cultural or similar significance. Examples cited include Armed Forces Day, a visit by the Pope or celebrations related to the Spanish National Team winning a World Cup.
The residents question whether a privately organized sporting event with commercial interests should receive similar treatment without first meeting all the requirements established by law.
Madrid City Council Defends Sporting Events at the Bernabéu
Madrid Mayor José Luis Martínez-Almeida acknowledged the residents’ right to pursue legal action if they believe there were irregularities in the authorization process.
However, he defended the Santiago Bernabéu’s ability to host these types of events. Martínez-Almeida distinguished the debate surrounding concerts from sporting competitions, arguing that it is reasonable for a stadium to host other sports-related events.
The dispute could also extend to the next NFL game scheduled to take place at the venue. The mayor said this year’s planned matchup remains on schedule and confirmed that it will be held just as the previous game was.
