Real Madrid have reportedly boycotted French TV network Canal+ after the channel aired a sketch show depicting Spanish athletes as puppets using performance-enhancing drugs.
A reporter hoping to interview France international Karim Benzema following Los Blancos' 1-1 draw at CSKA Moscow on Tuesday was apparently turned away by the club's press officer.
The sketch show, called Guignols de l'info, poked fun at the recent controversy surrounding cyclist Alberto Contador's ban for doping.
The sketches involved other Spanish sportsmen, including Rafael Nadal, Madrid goalkeeper Iker Casillas and the Spanish basketball team.
After the last-16 Champions League tie in Moscow, Canal+ presenter Nathalie Ianneta said: "We were looking to get a reaction from Benzema after the match between CSKA and Madrid.
"Unfortunately our reporter was barred because of the Guignols de l'info show."
The Spanish Cycling Federation have said that they may launch legal action after the show used their logo without authorisation.
Michael Penkman
