soccer

Pique Receives Two-Month Ban After Referee Row

Former Spain and Barcelona captain Gerard Pique has been handed a two‑month ban by the Spanish FA following an altercation with a referee during FC Andorra’s 1‑0 loss to Albacete.

In a post‑match report, referee Alonso de Ena Wolf cited Pique for threatening remarks, including a warning that he should leave with escort to avoid assault. The disciplinary committee cited Pique’s conduct as “notorious and public acts that undermine sporting dignity.”

Other Andorra staff members were also penalised: president Ferran Vilaseca received a four‑month suspension and sporting director Jaume Nogues was banned. Pique, who retired in 2022, now co‑owns FC Andorra. syntagm.co.za