Article by Cosmin Nistor – Published Sunday, May 10, 2026, 3:26 p.m. / Updated Sunday, May 10, 2026, 3:26 p.m.
Huge blow for FC Barcelona on the day of the big El Clasico with Real Madrid. The Catalans announced via their official page that Hansi Flick's father passed away on Sunday morning, just a few hours before the derby that can decide the title in La Liga.
The Catalans are just one point away from a new championship title and can celebrate even against their great rival. With 88 points and an impressive 10-game winning streak in the championship, Hansi Flick's side dominate the end of the season and have the chance to mathematically win the 29th title.
FC Barcelona announced the tragic event
The Catalan club confirmed the tragic news through a message published before the match on Spotify Camp Nou.
“FC Barcelona and the entire Blaugrana family would like to send our love to Hansi Flick after the death of his father. We share his pain and are with him in these very difficult times for him and his family“, the club said.
Hansi Flick will be on the bench for El Clasico
According to the Spanish publication Sport, the German technician, aged 61, informed the dressing room and the club's management about the family tragedy on the morning of the match. However, Flick chose to remain on the Barcelona bench for the decisive duel with Real Madrid.
And the Barca Times reported that the German coach will lead the team tonight, despite the extremely difficult time he is going through.
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Hansi Flick can make history tonight. With a single point obtained in El Clasico, FC Barcelona mathematically becomes the champion of Spain.
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Moreover, if they win all their remaining games until the end of the season, the Catalan team will equal the record of 100 points in one edition of La Liga.
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Barcelona are also close to an extremely rare feat: to end the season with straight wins in all of their home games in the league.
