Valencia Mayor Urges Change in Match Schedule Due to Marathon Conflict

In a letter addressed to Javier Tebas, President of LaLiga, Valencia’s Mayor María José Català has requested a change in the scheduling of the match between Valencia CF and Sevilla FC, set for December 7 at 16:15 at Mestalla. As previously reported by MARCA, there is growing concern within the city and among event organizers, as the match coincides with the Valencia Trinidad Alfonso Marathon, which will see the participation of 35,000 runners and have the city bustling with marathon activities until at least 15:00.

The Mayor urged Tebas to reconsider his previous negative response to the club’s earlier request regarding this scheduling conflict. The city administration believes that this overlap will significantly impede fans wishing to attend the match, as numerous streets will be closed due to the marathon, complicating access to the city. In her correspondence, Català emphasizes the necessity of adjusting the match time to ensure that both events can be enjoyed without causing severe inconvenience to Valencia CF season ticket holders.

She articulated her concerns in the letter, stating:

“Dear President,

I would like to express my concern regarding the Valencia CF-Sevilla FC match scheduled for Sunday, December 7 at 16:15, given its overlap with the Trinidad Alfonso Marathon taking place on the same day.

On November 5, the Valencia City Council, through the Municipal Sports Foundation, contacted Valencia CF to address the access and mobility issues that may arise from the coinciding of these two large-scale events. On that same day, the club informed us that they had spoken with LaLiga, and it was conveyed that changing the match time was not feasible.

I kindly request that you reconsider this decision, as the marathon draws a significant crowd, not only from participants (35,000) but also from accompanying individuals (averaging 2.5 per participant) and many residents who come out to enjoy the festive atmosphere.

The organization of this event necessitates the closure of a considerable number of main streets and avenues, which will significantly impede access for fans attending the match, as some of these closures will extend past 15:00.

Thus, considering the access difficulties for fans attending the football match, I ask that you do everything within your power to change the scheduled time.

Sincerely,

María José Català Verdet
Mayor of Valencia