Spanish FA suspends all 24 Copa del Rey ties after Toledo train crash kills at least 46

The Royal Spanish Football Federation (Rfef) suspended all 24 Copa del Rey first-round matches scheduled for Wednesday after two high-speed trains collided in the province of Toledo, with at least 46 people feared dead.

The crash occurred just after 9am between the towns of Mora and Orgaz, when a Renfe and an Iryo high-speed service — both travelling from Madrid to Seville — collided, derailing two carriages. A total of 544 people were on board the two trains. A government spokesperson for the Castilla-La Mancha region warned the death toll could rise further.

In a statement, the Rfef said it was acting “as a sign of respect and solidarity with all the victims,” adding that “the great Spanish football family remains united in grief at the tragedy.” The federation confirmed revised fixture dates and kick-off times for the postponed matches would be announced in the coming days.

Among the top-flight clubs due to begin their Copa del Rey campaigns on Wednesday were Valencia, Celta Vigo, and Real Betis, who currently sit fourth in La Liga. Real Madrid and Barcelona were not scheduled to enter the competition until the round of 32 in December, due to their participation in the Spanish Super Cup.

Real Madrid were among the clubs to issue a public statement of condolence. “Real Madrid C.F. wishes to express its deepest sorrow over the tragic railway accident that occurred in the province of Toledo,” the club said, adding its “full support to the emergency services and all those working in the rescue efforts.”

Atlético Madrid also expressed their condolences, stating: “We join in the grief for the victims of the terrible railway accident that occurred this morning in the province of Toledo. We extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of those who have passed away and wish a speedy recovery to all those injured.”