Floods force Valencia‑Espanyol fixture into limbo
The match that was supposed to see Valencia host Espanyol on Sunday will not happen, at least for now. The Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) announced the postponement on Wednesday after LaLiga put forward a request on Tuesday. Both clubs, still reeling from the Valencia flood that devastated the region, signed off on the decision.
Heavy rain on October 29 turned streets into rivers, swamping homes, businesses and highways across southeastern Spain. By the time rescue crews could get a clear picture, more than 218 lives had been lost. The scale of the tragedy has reshaped daily life in the province, and football is no exception.
Valencia and their fellow city team Levante jointly asked the league to push back their upcoming games. In a brief statement they said, “Just one week has passed since the catastrophe occurred and the situation remains very serious. Both clubs are grateful for the understanding and empathy shown by LaLiga, the RFEF and our opponents.” They added that helping the affected neighborhoods remains a top priority.
Wider impact on Spanish football
The postponement isn’t an isolated case. Over the past week, the flood has rattled the entire Spanish football calendar. Five Copa del Rey ties were moved to November, and several LaLiga fixtures were scrapped, including Real Madrid’s trip to Valencia, Villarreal’s clash with Rayo Vallecano, and Levante’s match against Málaga.
Women’s football feels the pinch too. In Liga F, both Valencia and Levante had their games delayed, and the derby between the two city rivals is now on hold indefinitely.
Even clubs not based in the flood zone have shown solidarity. Espanyol issued a statement expressing sympathy for Valencia CF, offering assistance to fans and ticket holders who have been affected by the sudden schedule change.
Here’s a quick look at the matches that have been altered because of the disaster:
- Valencia vs Espanyol – postponed
- Levante vs Tenerife (Segunda División) – postponed
- Real Madrid vs Valencia – cancelled
- Villarreal vs Rayo Vallecano – cancelled
- Levante vs Málaga – cancelled
- Five Copa del Rey games – moved to November
- Multiple Liga F fixtures involving Valencia and Levante – postponed
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has publicly called for a broader suspension of matches until the region can focus on rescue and rebuilding. His plea underscores how the disaster has moved beyond the pitch, turning football into a secondary concern for thousands of residents.
While the season’s schedule will inevitably be reshaped, clubs across Spain are urging fans to prioritize safety and support the recovery effort. As the water recedes, the hope is that football will return to the streets of Valencia, offering a moment of normalcy for a community that has endured so much.
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