The Liverpool - Real Madrid match in the Champions League will be officiated by Istvan Kovacs, who also refereed the first leg, which ended 2-5 for the "Galacticos".

Istvan Kovacs, an experienced Romanian referee, will officiate the Champions League match between Liverpool and Real Madrid, having important finals in his CV, including the Champions League and Europa League. English journalists have expressed concern regarding Kovacs' appointment, recalling the previous match between the two teams, in which Liverpool lost 2-5. Kovacs will be assisted by Mihai Marica and Ferencz Tunyogi, while Marcel Bîrsan will be the fourth official. Istvan Kovacs is on the list of referees competing for the title of best referee in the world, with final results expected after December 10, 2025.