A Spanish court has moved forward with a case against Real Madrid Football Club concerning allegations of excessive noise pollution from concerts held at its Santiago Bernabéu stadium. The judicial action follows complaints from local residents who reported significant disruption and health issues linked to the events.
The case, brought by a neighborhood association representing those living near the venue, claims that concerts during the spring and summer of 2024 caused severe disturbance. Residents described intolerable noise levels, restricted mobility, and adverse health effects including stress, anxiety, and persistent headaches. Performances by internationally recognized artists were cited as contributing to the problem.
In response to the allegations, the club previously canceled or postponed scheduled concerts and stated it was implementing measures to meet municipal sound regulations. However, the residents’ group proceeded with legal action, leading to a judge’s recent determination that there is sufficient basis to pursue charges.
The judge has formally implicated the club’s chief executive and the subsidiary responsible for stadium operations. Legal documents indicate that the parties will face streamlined judicial proceedings based on evidence suggesting possible violations of environmental laws related to noise pollution.
The plaintiffs argue that the stadium was leased for concerts despite inadequate sound insulation, knowingly endangering the well-being of nearby residents. The neighborhood association has presented data claiming that noise levels exceeded health safety thresholds on numerous occasions.
In a prior public statement, Real Madrid acknowledged the challenges of complying with local noise ordinances, even after undertaking soundproofing improvements. The club emphasized its commitment to adhering to regulations and cited difficulties faced by event organizers in meeting required standards.
The court’s decision marks a significant step in a dispute that highlights growing tensions between large-scale entertainment events and urban residential communities.