The Copa del Rey’s opening round will now extend into mid-November after Spain’s football federation (RFEF) postponed 24 matches following the fatal train collision near Urda. The ties scheduled for October 28 have been spread across seven dates, from October 29 to November 13.
At least 68 people died in the collision in Toledo province, according to the provisional count given by Castilla-La Mancha president Emiliano García-Page. Renfe, Spain’s national passenger train, said the collision involved one of its Madrid–Seville AVE trains and an Iryo service. Dozens of people were injured.
The RFEF said the postponements were a gesture of respect for the victims and solidarity with those affected. Its decision also covered the day’s other federation-run matches, including nine futsal cup games. The futsal competition’s next draw was postponed too.
Spain has declared three days of official mourning from October 29 through 31, with national flags to fly at half-staff on public buildings.
Celta observed a minute of silence before training. Real Madrid’s players and coaching staff held their own tribute before beginning their session.
When the postponed Copa del Rey ties will be played
Nine of the postponed games have moved to October 29, including Numancia’s meeting with Real Oviedo and Xerez’s match against Cádiz. The remaining 15 will be played across six dates in November.
Alavés will visit Anaitasuna on November 3. Levante’s tie against Tarancón and Mallorca’s meeting with Alcoyano will follow on November 5.
Valencia has confirmed that its match against Tavernes de la Valldigna will take place at Mestalla on November 10. Navalcarnero will face Real Betis on November 12, with Salamanca UDS hosting Celta Vigo on November 13.
The opening round brings together 112 clubs from seven categories, with 56 places in the next stage at stake. Barcelona, Real Madrid, Atlético de Madrid and Real Sociedad enter at the round of 32 because they’re the four clubs involved in the Spanish Super Cup.
Tributes will continue in the league. LaLiga and the RFEF have agreed that every match in the next round of Spain’s top two divisions will be preceded by a minute of silence for the victims.
