Spanish train crash: All Spanish cup matches suspended as mark of respect
Spanish football authorities have suspended all Copa del Rey matches following a tragic train crash near Madrid that killed at least 68 people. Major clubs have expressed their condolences and support for the victims and emergency services.
Why it matters
The suspension demonstrates the scale of the national tragedy and the role of sports institutions in expressing public solidarity.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said he was "shocked" by the train accident and offered support to all the victims and their families
All 24 matches in the Spanish Copa del Rey due to take place on Wednesday have been suspended as a mark of respect after at least 68 people were killed in a train crash near Madrid.
More than 500 passengers were travelling on the trains when they collided and derailed in Toledo.
In the statement released by the Spanish FA (RFEF), authorities said the decision has been made in solidarity with the victims.
Five top-flight teams - Levante, Alaves, Valencia, Celta Vigo and Real Betis - were due to play in the first-round matches on Wednesday.
Spanish giants including Real Madrid, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid aren't due to enter the competition until the last 32.
Also covering this story
11 other newsrooms covered this event. We read each version separately.
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