All 24 Copa del Rey matches scheduled for Wednesday have been postponed following a catastrophic train collision near Madrid that claimed more than 30 lives. According to BBC Sport, the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) made the decision in solidarity with victims and their families.
More than 500 passengers were aboard the two trains when they collided and derailed in the Toledo province. Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez expressed shock at the tragedy and pledged support to all those affected. The crash involved a Renfe high-speed train and an Iryo train, with the Renfe service striking the rear of the Iryo train and causing multiple cars to derail. The incident also suspended rail traffic on the Madrid–Andalusia high-speed line.
This represents the second major accident on the same high-speed corridor in 2026. An earlier collision at Adamuz in the same year resulted in 46 fatalities, raising fresh concerns about safety on this critical transport route.
Which teams were affected by the postponement?
Five top-flight clubs were scheduled to compete in first-round matches on Wednesday: Levante, Alaves, Valencia, Celta Vigo and Real Betis. Spanish giants including Real Madrid, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid are not due to enter the competition until the last-32 round and were therefore unaffected by the suspension.
How have clubs responded?
Barcelona issued a statement expressing its deepest condolences to the victims.
FC Barcelona expresses its deepest condolences to the victims of the serious railway accident between Los Yebenes and Urda (Toledo). The club wishes to convey its support and solidarity to the families and friends of the victims and to wish all those injured a speedy recovery.
Real Madrid similarly released a statement offering support to emergency services and those affected.
Real Madrid C. F. wishes to express its deepest sorrow over the tragic railway accident that occurred in the province of Toledo. The club extends its condolences to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives, as well as its affection and solidarity to the injured and all those affected by this terrible accident. Real Madrid would like to express its full support to the emergency services and all those working in the rescue efforts, and shares in the grief of everyone impacted during these moments of profound sadness.
What happens next with the tournament?
The RFEF stated that it would announce revised dates and times for the postponed matches in the coming days. The federation was also still evaluating whether Thursday's 14 scheduled matches would proceed as planned. A definitive tournament schedule will be released once the federation completes its assessment of the situation.
