Perez: ‘Madrid title win in coronavirus era the toughest of all’

Real normally celebrates winning trophies with a parade at the Cibeles fountain in Madrid, but stayed away from the city centre to prevent a mass gathering due to COVID-19 pandemic.

Real Madrid players pose with the trophy after winning La Liga.

Real Madrid’s latest title triumph was the most difficult of its 34 La Liga wins as it coincided with the COVID-19 pandemic, president Florentino Perez said on Friday as the club marked the achievement in a subdued manner.

Real normally celebrates winning trophies with a parade in front of tens of thousands of supporters at the Cibeles fountain in the Spanish capital, but stayed away from the city centre to prevent a mass gathering which would risk spreading the virus.

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Instead, it held a small ceremony with local politicians at its Valdebebas training ground on Friday, where it clinched the title a day earlier with a 2-1 win over Villarreal, its 10th consecutive victory since the campaign resumed.

“Madrid fans feel prouder than ever of our players. This is the toughest league there will ever be, but these players and coach have been a true example. It's a special league title in these difficult times,” Perez said.

“The trophy is in memory of those who have suffered during the pandemic. Many people have left us, including very important people in this club. It's a league title which represents the fight against adversity.”

Club captain Sergio Ramos added: “It's a day for us to remember everyone who has suffered in this period. I hope this title can be of some help. We also show our gratitude to everyone who made sure football returned.

“We would all like to have gone to Cibeles but we have to lead by example.”