The Madrid regional government has suspended Rayo Vallecano's concession of Estadio de Vallecas on Tuesday to carry out urgent safety and hygiene works expected to last between two and six months.
Culture, Tourism and Sports regional minister Mariano de Paco Serrano announced the measure after an audit uncovered serious deficiencies in fire protection systems, electrical installations, emergency lighting and hygiene conditions. The report concluded there was “generalised obsolescence” and “severe regulatory non-compliance” that compromises the safety of the venue.
Works will begin on Wednesday and force the club to find an alternative stadium for its first home match, scheduled for 20 August against Alavés. Rayo Vallecano sources expressed surprise at the decision, stating they had no prior notice of the concession suspension.
LaLiga president Javier Tebas backed the measure on safety grounds. Más Madrid councillor Olga Martínez criticised the handling and warned that introducing an intermediary promoter “smells like a quick profit grab”.
