The suspension of Gerard Pique has been a hot topic in Spanish football following the former defender was slapped with a six-game ban by the Royal Spanish Football Federation. After FC Andorra lost to Albacete, the punishment comes following an angry verbal altercation with the match officials. Gerard Pique of FC Andorra, now owner of the club, reacted angrily at the end of the match, and was disciplined.
In addition to the six match sanctions, he has also been banned from football activity for two months from all official football activities. This further bolsters his decision, as it is not just on matchdays he is involved. The incident comes amid increased pressure in Spain’s second division. Club owners and officials are more visible and emotionally engaged. That is the intensity of Pique’s reaction, and it also comes with some questions regarding behavior by those not in the squad of players.
On a larger scale, the RFEF’s determined move is a clear message. Respect towards match officials remains a top priority. Even the big names are not spared of strict discipline. The ban on FC Andorra may be a difficult one to face. Pique has been a front-runner in the direction the club is taking. The absence of his from official duties could have a bearing on decision making in a very critical period of the season. It also focuses on how Pique is making the shift from player to football executive.
He had a good career on the field, but there is another set of expectations when it comes to off-the-field duties. Now, he has the ability to keep his cool in crisis situations as a role of leadership.Â
