Fatal Toledo Train Crash Forces Suspension of 24 Copa del Rey Matches
Spanish authorities reported at least 30 deaths in the high-speed collision near Urda station, prompting the football federation to halt first-round play as a mark of respect.
By Jason Lee ·
A deadly collision between two high-speed trains in the province of Toledo has halted the first round of Spain’s Copa del Rey. The Spanish football federation, or RFEF, postponed 24 matches originally scheduled for Wednesday evening. This decision serves as a mark of respect and solidarity with the victims of the accident, which occurred near Urda station on the line connecting Madrid and Sevilla.
Regional authorities confirmed a high death toll from the crash. Emiliano García-Page, the regional president of Castilla La Mancha, stated that at least 30 people died in the collision. He warned that the number of fatalities could increase as rescue operations continue. García-Page also reported that at least 80 people sustained injuries in the incident. Investigators are currently determining the cause of the collision, which involved a train operated by the national carrier Renfe and another run by the private company Iryo.
The RFEF issued a statement detailing the suspension of the 24 games. The federation noted that the first round had already begun on Tuesday with 18 matches played. The 24 postponed games were set for Wednesday, while 14 additional matches are scheduled for Thursday. It remains undecided whether the Thursday fixtures will proceed as planned. The RFEF promised to release a revised tournament schedule and definitive dates for the postponed games in due course.
Spain’s royal family expressed grief over the tragedy in a social media post. The message described the family as moved and worried by the crash. They shared in the sorrow of the deceased families and offered affection to the injured and those affected. The statement also extended support to emergency teams and personnel working in the area to assist victims under difficult circumstances.
The Copa del Rey is the oldest national football competition in Spain. Real Sociedad won the tournament last year by defeating Atletico Madrid in the final. The four teams qualifying for the Spanish Supercopa, which include Barcelona, Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid, and Real Sociedad, do not enter the competition until the round of 32. Consequently, the top-tier clubs are not directly affected by the immediate suspension of these first-round matches.
The incident has placed the entire Spanish football community in a state of mourning. The RFEF stated that the community stands united in grief and has made itself available to assist authorities in helping the victims of the accident. The collision occurred on Wednesday morning, disrupting the start of the evening’s football schedule.
Source: ESPN
