Spanish federation to probe Pique's criticism of referees

Pique said in an interview with a YouTube channel that if the majority of referees are Madrid fans, it's natural that they will favour Madrid in a moment of doubt.

Barcelona:The Spanish soccer federation said it has launched an investigation into whether Barcelona captain Gerard Pique should be sanctioned over comments hinting that referees benefit Real Madrid at times.

Pique said in an interview with a YouTube channel that if the majority of referees are Madrid fans, it's natural that they will favour Madrid in a moment of doubt. He said he knows referees are professionals and try to do their best, but unconsciously may end up benefiting Madrid.

The federation will also investigate Cadiz president Manolo Vizcaino for complaining about video review decisions against his team.

It did not set a time frame for a decision on whether Pique or Vizcaino will be sanctioned.

Pique has been sidelined with a knee injury.