Spanish authorities declare Barcelona vs Real Madrid a high-risk fixture

According to a report by Madrid Universal on Wednesday October 14, 2026, Spanish authorities have officially classified the upcoming El Clasico between Barcelona and Real Madrid as a high-risk fixture ahead of their highly anticipated La Liga meeting on Sunday, October 25.

According to AS, the decision was made by the Permanent Committee of Spain’s State Commission against Violence, Racism, Xenophobia and Intolerance in Sport. As a result, a reinforced police presence is expected before kick-off, throughout the match and after the final whistle at the Spotify Camp Nou.

The classification comes amid growing tensions between the two Spanish giants, whose rivalry has become increasingly strained by the ongoing Negreira case.

Real Madrid have continued to pursue the matter involving Barcelona’s former payments to companies linked to ex-refereeing official Jose Maria Enriquez Negreira. The case has deepened the divide between the clubs, with Barcelona reportedly taking legal action against Real Madrid president Florentino Perez over comments he made during a press conference in the summer.

With relations between the two institutions under significant pressure, the authorities are expected to take additional precautions to ensure the match passes without major incidents.

There is also plenty at stake on the pitch. Barcelona, managed by Hansi Flick, are reportedly enjoying an outstanding start to the season and sit at the top of the La Liga table, while Jose Mourinho’s Real Madrid are chasing them after dropping points in their opening league fixtures.

The result could have important implications for the title race, particularly for Real Madrid, who will be eager to reduce the gap and avoid falling further behind their bitter rivals.

The pressure on Mourinho is also heightened by Real Madrid’s recent record in El Clasico. Los Blancos reportedly lost their previous two meetings with Barcelona, including the Spanish Super Cup final in January and a league encounter at the Spotify Camp Nou in May.

Mourinho will therefore be keen to change that trend when his side travel to Catalonia, although the atmosphere surrounding the contest could make the occasion even more demanding.

The high-risk designation does not mean trouble is inevitable. Instead, it signals that authorities consider the fixture to require heightened security arrangements because of the circumstances surrounding the game.

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