Ancelotti Calls For Football Suspension In Spain After Tragic Valencia Floods.
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has voiced his belief that all football in Spain should have been paused out of respect for those affected by the devastating floods in the Valencia region, which have claimed more than 215 lives. Speaking ahead of Real’s upcoming Champions League fixture, Ancelotti emphasised the need for sensitivity during this time of tragedy.
Following a request from La Liga, the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) postponed Real Madrid’s away match against Valencia and Villarreal’s home game against Rayo Vallecano on Saturday. Last week, six Copa del Rey games, including one featuring Valencia, were also postponed due to travel restrictions advised by authorities. However, other La Liga matches still proceeded over the weekend, which has drawn criticism.
Ancelotti expressed his disappointment, remarking, “Football is a party, and you can only celebrate and party when you, your family and everybody is well. When people are not well, you don’t party.” He added, “Football has to stop. Because it is the most important of the least important things in life.” He stressed that while managers and players are not the ultimate decision-makers, the focus should now be on supporting affected communities.
The tragedy has cast a shadow over Spain, with Atletico Madrid’s Diego Simeone and Barcelona’s Hansi Flick both stating that continuing matches this weekend made “no sense.” Ancelotti himself, who managed AC Milan from 2001 to 2009, was set to face his former club on Tuesday, but acknowledged that the emotional impact of recent events far outweighed the importance of any football match.
The aftermath of the floods has been deeply felt across the country. On Sunday, during a visit to the hard-hit town of Paiporta, the Spanish king and queen, as well as Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, faced anger from local residents, who threw mud and other objects in protest at the government’s response. The Prime Minister was evacuated amid the commotion, and the Royal Family’s visit was met with similar frustration from citizens grieving their losses.
Barcelona was also affected by flooding on Monday, which led to severe travel disruptions, including the cancellation, delay, or diversion of over 60 flights at El Prat Airport, while rail services were suspended.
In light of the tragedy, UEFA has announced that a moment of silence will be observed at all Champions League, Europa League, and Conference League matches this week to honour the victims of the flooding.
