La Liga president Javier Tebas has called claims of a refereeing conspiracy against Real Madrid “a smokescreen to hide other shortcomings” after the team’s defeat to Atletico Madrid in Sunday’s derby.

Coach José Mourinho said Madrid were denied “two clear red cards” at the Metropolitano and alleged referee Miguel Ortiz Arias “couldn’t cope with the pressure” due to a lack of experience. “I don’t want to say this was prepared — I want to think they were mistakes,” Mourinho said, after a result which left Madrid six points behind Barcelona in the title race.

Tebas, who has frequently clashed with Madrid and club president Florentino Perez, posted on X: “To maintain that referees are conspiring against Real Madrid is to live in another galaxy.” He said the narrative hides shortcomings “plain to see in these opening matches of the season.”

With seven games played, Madrid are six points behind Barcelona, while Barça have maximum points and 31 goals. Spain coach Luis de la Fuente rejected the claims: “If someone believes it and has proof, then they should present that proof.” He said VAR “is here to help” and urged: “Let’s drop the conspiracy theories, please.”