Headline: Spanish Copa del Rey Matches Suspended in Respect for Train Crash Victims
All 24 matches in the Spanish Copa del Rey scheduled for Wednesday have been postponed as a sign of respect following a tragic train collision near Madrid that resulted in the deaths of more than 30 individuals.
The accident occurred in Toledo, involving over 500 passengers who were on board the trains when they collided and derailed.
The Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) announced the decision to postpone the matches in solidarity with the victims and their families.
Five La Liga teams—Levante, Alaves, Valencia, Celta Vigo, and Real Betis—were set to compete in the first round of the tournament, while major clubs such as Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Atletico Madrid are scheduled to enter in the last-32 round.
Barcelona conveyed its “deepest condolences” to those affected by the tragedy through social media. The club stated, “FC Barcelona expresses its deepest condolences to the victims of the serious railway accident between Los Yebenes and Urda (Toledo). The club wishes to convey its support and solidarity to the families and friends of the victims and to wish all those injured a speedy recovery.”
Real Madrid also expressed their sorrow on their website, offering “full support” to emergency services. They stated, “Real Madrid C. F. wishes to express its deepest sorrow over the tragic railway accident that occurred in the province of Toledo. The club extends its condolences to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives, as well as its affection and solidarity to the injured and all those affected by this terrible accident. Real Madrid would like to express its full support to the emergency services and all those working in the rescue efforts, and shares in the grief of everyone impacted during these moments of profound sadness.”
Matches scheduled for Thursday will proceed as planned, but the RFEF has yet to announce a revised tournament schedule for the postponed matches from Wednesday.
