“Pedro Proença meets with referees due to boycott in the Super Cup.”

Pedro Proença, president of the Portuguese Football Federation, is at the center of a controversy that threatens the Super Cup, scheduled for this Saturday. With the referees' boycott looming over the event, Proença will meet with the refereeing sector early this morning in an urgent attempt to calm tensions less than 24 hours before the kickoff of the 2026/27 season, featuring FC Porto and Torreense in Coimbra.

The situation became critical following the release of audio recordings in which Proença openly criticizes the quality of Portuguese refereeing. This episode led the referees to refuse to begin the first recycling and assessment actions (ARA), which are scheduled for this weekend in Tomar. The referees, outraged by the atmosphere created, have already met with Luciano Gonçalves, president of the FPF Refereeing Council, demanding a formal apology from Proença.

The holding of the Super Cup is therefore at risk, as André Narciso, the referee appointed for the match, has not guaranteed his presence. Proença, aware of the seriousness of the situation, will have to navigate a growing atmosphere of tension that could jeopardize the start of the new season.

Following the controversy, Proença stated: “The quality of Portuguese refereeing is unquestionable,” attempting to respond to the criticism that arose as a result of the released audio. However, the lack of guarantees from the referees and the need for an apology may render his statement insufficient to restore confidence.

The next steps will be crucial. Proença's meeting with the referees is expected to be decisive in clarifying the situation and seeking a solution that allows for the Super Cup to take place. The pressure is immense, and the future of refereeing in Portugal, as well as the start of the league, is at stake. The outcome of this meeting could define not only the climate of trust between the FPF and the referees but also the beginning of a turbulent sports season ahead.