The Madrid derby will not be played at Vallecas. The poor condition of the pitch has forced LaLiga to move the Rayo vs Atlético match to another stadium, sparking controversy and raising questions about the club’s responsibility and the venue’s future in the competition.

LaLiga inspectors did not approve the pitch

Following completion of audit work and inspections carried out by LaLiga technicians and independent experts, a negative assessment was issued regarding the playing surface. Despite intensive efforts undertaken by Rayo Vallecano since last week, the pitch at Vallecas still does not meet required safety standards. Reports confirmed that the field does not guarantee conditions allowing the match to be played without risk of injury to players and referees.

This will be the second consecutive home match that cannot take place at their own venue. A week earlier, on Saturday, February 8, just hours before kickoff, LaLiga canceled the match against Real Oviedo due to the terrible pitch condition. Real Oviedo then filed an official request with the Royal Spanish Football Federation to be awarded three points by walkover.

© MM Groundhopping | The pitch at Vallecas makes it impossible to hold a LaLiga match at this stadium.

Butarque instead of Metropolitano

The possibility of playing the match at Estadio Riyadh Air Metropolitano, Atlético Madrid's venue, was considered but ultimately rejected. This would have meant discrimination against the visiting team, who would have played both round matches on their home ground. Ultimately, the choice fell on CD Leganés' stadium, Estadio Ontime Butarque, which currently competes in LaLiga Hypermotion and is playing an away match against Córdoba this weekend. The decision was made with the consent of all involved clubs and institutions.

LaLiga deeply regrets that this match cannot take place under the originally planned conditions, especially given the impact this situation has on fans of both teams, who are always the reason football exists, reads part of the organization's official statement. At the same time, LaLiga appreciated Rayo Vallecano's efforts in finding a solution after replacing the pitch in difficult weather conditions.

The State Commission for Violence in Sport classified the Madrid derby as a high-risk event, which requires clubs to implement enhanced security measures. This includes the ticketing system, fan placement in the stadium, and access control to the venue. Security forces will also strengthen control and preventive actions in terms of fan supervision.