La Cartuja under fire over Copa del Rey access, transport and heat | OneFootball

Supporters and residents condemned the staging of the Copa del Rey final at La Cartuja, citing blocked access, scarce transport and shade, and overwhelmed fan zones. Real Sociedad’s area overflowed, while Atlético fans reported long walks in near 30 degree heat.

Eduardo Hernández, spokesperson for Atlético’s Senado association of long-standing members, called Saturday “disastrous, ineffective, with major inefficiency at the entrances”, adding, “We found a wonderful city that does not seem prepared for this event”, speaking to El Correo de Andalucía.

The Senado group also castigated organisers on social media, accusing the RFEF and co-participants, saying the Sevilla city council bore responsibility, and demanding accountability for “the worst organisation possible of a final”.

Fans complained of poorly signposted gates, police horses moving through crowds and ID checks not being applied. Reduced-visibility seats were said to cost more than last year’s Champions League final. Inside, toilets were dirty, some fans with reduced mobility could not see, and there was no scoreboard.

Neighbourhood group ADAHE-Alameda vice-president Iván Molina said such events “do not compensate” for their area, citing fights in the streets, police interventions, Tussam line cuts and heavy traffic. He added that residents faced insults, neo-Nazi stickers and a stench of urine, calling the day “an absolute hell”.

The RFEF said it had taken note and was analysing Saturday. City spokesman Juan Bueno praised a “great atmosphere”, called issues isolated and swiftly resolved, and cited an €80 million impact, adding cleaning restored normality within hours. Opposition leader Antonio Muñoz urged a review of benefits and drawbacks of staging such events annually.

Source: El Periódico Mediterráneo