Barcelona president Joan Laporta has been compelled to issue a formal apology after former player Luis Figo's presence in the club's VIP box during Sunday's El Clásico against Real Madrid triggered outrage among supporters.
The appearance of Figo, who remains one of football's most notorious figures in Barcelona history after his controversial £37 million move to arch-rivals Real Madrid in 2000, sparked immediate backlash from fans who still view him as the ultimate traitor.
The Betrayal That Still Stings
Figo's transfer to Madrid over two decades ago remains one of football's most bitter sagas. The Portuguese winger, who had become a fan favourite at Camp Nou, made the shocking switch to Barcelona's fiercest rivals in a world-record deal that created lasting animosity.
During his first return to Camp Nou in a Real Madrid shirt, Figo was famously pelted with missiles including a pig's head, illustrating the depth of feeling that persists to this day.
VIP Presence Provokes Outrage
Sunday's match saw Figo seated in Barcelona's hospitality area alongside other club legends, a move that many supporters interpreted as the club legitimising a figure they consider persona non grata.
Social media erupted with criticism from fans who questioned why someone they view as the ultimate symbol of betrayal was being welcomed as an honoured guest during one of the season's most important fixtures.
Presidential Damage Control
In his statement, Laporta sought to calm the storm, explaining that Figo's invitation came through club partners rather than being an official club decision. The president acknowledged the "sensitivity" surrounding Figo's presence and expressed understanding of fans' reactions.
"We recognise the emotions that certain historical figures evoke among our supporters," Laporta stated, while attempting to balance diplomatic relations with former players against respecting fan sentiment.
The incident highlights how, even after 24 years, the wounds from Figo's defection remain raw in Barcelona, demonstrating that in the fierce rivalry between these two Spanish giants, some transgressions are never truly forgiven.
