Valencia CF has issued a statement criticising the Royal Spanish Football Federation for its decision to omit Nou Mestalla stadium as one of the venues to host the 2030 World Cup. The club has stressed its total disagreement with the RFEF's decision, and city councillors are asking the Spanish government to reconsider.

Club statement and city council reaction

In a statement, Valencia CF expressed its deep regret at the announcement issued by the RFEF, which excludes Valencia from hosting one of the most important football events in the world. The club pointed out that Valencia had over the years provided evidence of its ability to host world-class events and that the final selection was still several months away. The decision came as a surprise, especially as the club accepted the terms of June 28 and was granted a licence to build Nou Mestalla, meeting FIFA's time requirements by a wide margin.

Nou Mestalla, a planned stadium with a capacity of 70,000 spectators and category four according to UEFA, is a key element in Valencia's bid. We hope that the decision announced today is not final, that it will be reconsidered and that in doing so, such a great injustice will not be done to a city that has always been associated with top-level sport and recognised worldwide for its successful organisational skills - can be read in the club's announcement.

The Valencia City Council has also expressed regret at the RFEF's decision, even asking the government to reconsider it. All political options agree that the city and region should be present at such an important event. Salvador Gomar, president of the Valencian Community Football Federation, stressed that in 2030 no one will remember whether the dossier was presented in March or July.

© Valencia CF

Concerns of Federation

The Valencia City Council's Urban Planning Committee approved the application to unblock the Nou Mestalla. The People's Party supported the motion presented by the PSPV and Compromís to approve the modification of the ATE Plan. However, it was too late to do so.

The RFEF justified its decision with delays in the construction of the stadium and doubts about the bid. Construction at Valencia had remained at an impasse for 15 years. Despite this, the club's authorities claimed that they were ready to resume construction within six months after receiving planning permission.

The club accepted the RFEF's conditions on the final day, which contributed to the decision not to consider them. As a result, one of Spain's most historic clubs will not have its stadium among the 11 selected for the World Cup to be held in Spain, Portugal and Morocco.

© Valencia CF