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Rabat – Former Barcelona defender Gerard Piqué has been suspended by the Spanish football federation (RFEF) following incidents during and after FC Andorra’s 1‑0 loss to Albacete in the Segunda Division.
The federation’s disciplinary committee ruled that Piqué, who owns Andorra, will miss six matches and face a two‑month suspension from all official football activity.
The punishment was issued for “minor violence” directed at referees and for “public acts that undermine the dignity of sport.”
Sporting director Jaume Nogues received identical sanctions for allegedly insulting the officiating team.
Gerard Pique, who is now co-owner of FC Andorra, has been given a two-month ban by the Spanish football federation.
It comes after an argument with a referee. pic.twitter.com/MKwWxyZJKU
— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) May 6, 2026
FC Andorra also received a $1,500 fine and was ordered to close part of their stadium, the presidential box and VIP section, for two games.
The committee warned that a further breach could lead to a three‑point deduction.
According to the match officials, Piqué repeatedly complained about decisions and told referee Alonso De Ena Wolf to “leave under escort so that you aren’t attacked.”
The referee’s report also claimed he told another official, “In another country they’d beat you up, but here in Andorra we’re civilised.”
Club response
FC Andorra issued a statement rejecting the referee’s account, saying parts of the report were inaccurate and did not reflect what was actually said.
The club demanded a corrected version and reserved the right to pursue legal action to protect its reputation.
Piqué, 39, retired from playing in 2022 after a career that included 616 appearances for Barcelona, nine La Liga titles, and three Champions League trophies.
He also won the Premier League and Champions League with Manchester United before returning to Camp Nou.
His company, Kosmos, took control of FC Andorra in 2018 and has since overseen the club’s rise to the second division.
Piqué is also the founder of the Kings League, a seven‑a‑side competition that has attracted global attention and participation from stars such as Lamine Yamal.
The suspension marks one of the most serious disciplinary actions against Piqué since his retirement.
While FC Andorra continues to contest the referee’s report, the sanctions underline the federation’s stance on protecting officials and maintaining respect for the game.
