[[DES_1]]The president of FC Barcelona, Josep Maria Bartomeu, spoke to The Washington Post following UEFA's announcement of a $33,000 fine for the Club stemming from the appearance of pro-Catalan independence flags at the Champions League final in Berlin on 6 June.
Here's what Bartomeu told the Post:
"FC Barcelona has always defended, and will always defend, freedom of speech."
"Futbol Club Barcelona has never banned its members or fans from expressing their thoughts and feelings in a peaceful manner in our stadium or when supporting our team when they travel."
"FC Barcelona disagrees with the ruling will ask for the case to be reviewed."
"We are fully convinced that the rights of our members are untouchable and should not be given a political connotation."
"We remain supportive of our members and the spirit of freedom in which this club has relied since its foundation 115 years ago."
