The match between Valencia and Real Madrid, originally scheduled for Saturday, November 2 at Mestalla Stadium, has been postponed due to the devastating floods that struck the Valencian Community. The Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), in conjunction with LaLiga, decided to reschedule the match to show respect and support for the families of the over 100 people who lost their lives, as well as the many communities affected by this tragic DANA (Isolated Depression at High Levels). Additionally, the Spanish government declared three days of national mourning, a significant gesture in honor of the victims of this natural disaster. 

The crisis caused by torrential rains has left the region in poor condition for hosting a sporting event of this magnitude. The floods have impacted not only the area around Mestalla Stadium but have also led to the suspension of other LaLiga and Second Division games in the Valencian Community, such as Villarreal vs. Rayo Vallecano and Levante vs. Málaga. The effects of this DANA have surpassed previous records in the region, comparable to past severe weather events.

With Real Madrid in second place in the standings with 24 points, trailing Barcelona by six, this suspension presents a scheduling challenge, as the team will face difficulty fitting the match into an already packed calendar. With commitments in the Champions League, the Intercontinental Cup, and other national tournaments, rescheduling options are limited. In fact, a tentative date for the match could be as late as May 2025, unless Madrid is eliminated early from one of its competitions.

For Valencia, this match is also crucial, as they currently sit at the bottom of the table with just 7 points. Although the team’s sporting situation is challenging, the humanitarian tragedy affecting the local community has taken precedence, leaving the game’s rescheduling as a secondary matter. The Valencia fans and team have shown solidarity and patience, understanding that the city’s well-being is the top priority at this time. 

Real Madrid, for its part, issued a statement expressing condolences to the victims and offering its support to the Valencian Community. Both the players and the club’s management have shown empathy for the situation, making it clear that they fully support any decision that prioritizes the affected families and allows time for collective mourning. This gesture from Real Madrid reflects a deep social awareness and sensitivity toward tragedies that impact the broader football community and beyond.