Spain Train Disaster: Football Federation Suspends 24 Copa del Rey Matches

The Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) has suspended 24 Copa del Rey matches scheduled for Wednesday following a deadly train crash near Madrid that reportedly killed at least 68 people.

The decision was announced as a mark of respect for the victims of the disaster, which involved two trains that collided and derailed in Spain’s Toledo province. More than 500 passengers were reportedly travelling on the trains when the accident occurred.

In a statement, the RFEF said the postponement was intended to express solidarity with the victims and those affected by the tragedy. The federation has yet to announce a revised schedule for the postponed fixtures.

Five La Liga clubs — Levante, Alavés, Valencia, Celta Vigo and Real Betis — were among the top-flight teams scheduled to feature in Wednesday’s first-round matches. Spanish giants Real Madrid, Barcelona and Atlético Madrid are due to enter the competition at the round of 32.

Tributes have also poured in from across Spanish football. Real Madrid and Barcelona expressed condolences to the victims and their families, while Real Madrid pledged its support to emergency services and those involved in rescue operations.

Real Madrid’s players wore black armbands during their Women’s Champions League match against Bayern Munich on Wednesday night, and a minute’s silence was observed before kick-off in honour of those affected by the disaster.

Barcelona also issued a statement expressing its “deepest condolences” following the accident between Los Yébenes and Urda in Toledo. The club extended its support to the victims’ families and wished those injured a speedy recovery.

Real Madrid, in its own statement, expressed sorrow over the loss of life and solidarity with the injured and others affected. The club also acknowledged the efforts of emergency personnel working at the scene.

Spanish tennis star Carlos Alcaraz joined the tributes, sending his condolences to the victims and expressing support for their families and everyone affected by the tragedy.

While Thursday’s Copa del Rey matches remain scheduled to proceed, the RFEF has not yet confirmed when the 24 postponed fixtures will be played. The suspensions reflect the sporting community’s response to one of Spain’s most devastating reported rail disasters.