The Spanish soccer federation announced Wednesday that every Copa del Rey match slated for that day will be postponed following a devastating high‑speed train collision in central Spain. The accident, which left more than 60 dead and dozens injured, prompted the federation to act “in solidarity with the victims” and to offer assistance to authorities.

Federation’s Statement

“Shocked by the tragic railway accident,” the federation said in an official release. “The entire Spanish soccer community stands united in grief over this tragedy and has made itself available to the authorities to assist the victims of this devastating accident.” The federation added that a revised tournament schedule will be issued as soon as possible.

Club Reactions

Major clubs quickly issued statements of condolence. Real Madrid C.F. expressed its “deepest sorrow” and extended condolences to the families of those who lost their lives, as well as support for the injured. Barcelona echoed the sentiment, offering its “deepest condolences to the victims” and wishing a speedy recovery for those hurt. Atletico Madrid joined the chorus, saying it stood “in the grief for the victims of the terrible railway accident that occurred this morning.”

All three clubs—Real Madrid, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid—enter the Copa del Rey at the round of 32, meaning they were not scheduled to play in the first‑round matches that were postponed.

Impact on the Tournament

The first‑round fixtures originally set for Wednesday involved five top‑flight clubs: Real Betis, Celta Vigo, Valencia, Alaves and Levante. Those games will be rescheduled, while first‑round matches slated for Thursday remain on the calendar. Games that took place on Tuesday were unaffected.

The Spanish league has not announced any changes to the weekend’s league schedule, indicating that regular league play will continue as planned.

Broader Context

The Copa del Rey, Spain’s premier knockout cup competition, traditionally features clubs from across the country, offering lower‑division teams the chance to face top‑flight opponents. The decision to postpone the first‑round matches reflects the federation’s commitment to national mourning and public safety, aligning with the broader response from Spanish society.

Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the high‑speed train collision, which involved one train striking the rear of a stationary train on the tracks. The incident has sparked nationwide grief and prompted expressions of solidarity from sports organizations, businesses, and community groups alike.

Looking Ahead

Fans and clubs await the federation’s revised schedule, which will determine when the postponed Copa del Rey fixtures will be played. In the meantime, the Spanish soccer community remains focused on supporting the victims and their families, demonstrating the unifying power of sport in times of national tragedy.

Original reporting: KSAT Sports (San Antonio) — read the source article.