Copa del Rey lands in Seville as hosts target exemplary atmosphere and respect | OneFootball

The Copa del Rey has arrived at the Palacio de San Telmo in Seville ahead of Saturday’s final at La Cartuja. According to El Periódico Mediterráneo, Xabi Prieto and Gabi Fernández delivered the trophy by horse-drawn carriage and were received by Rafael Louzán, Juanma Moreno and José Luis Sanz.

Louzán praised Sevilla and Andalucía as a benchmark for Spanish sport and said he wants the final to stay in the city until 2028, citing tourism gains. He noted that eight clubs have played at La Cartuja since the 2019/20 final agreement, each drawing global attention to Seville.

He commended the city’s presentation but pressed for better stadium access to ease arrivals and exits. Louzán also welcomed moving the final forward a week to avoid the Feria de Abril and wished Real Betis luck in their Europa League bid.

Sanz argued Sevilla is set to be the undisputed capital of the Copa del Rey after hosting 11 finals, pointing to the stadium, hotels and proven organisation. This will be the sixth straight final at La Cartuja, though some clubs have questioned the city’s continued role.

Moreno echoed that pride, saying the event reaches five continents and has delivered considerable direct economic impact in recent years. He called for respect, a good atmosphere and fair play rather than hostility.

Fans can view the trophy at the Palacio de San Telmo’s exhibition hall alongside the Fútbol como arte display. Opening times are Thursday 17:00 to 20:00, Friday morning and the same afternoon slot, and Saturday 10:00 to 14:00, before Atlético de Madrid or Real Sociedad lift it that night.

Source: El Periódico Mediterráneo