In the wake of catastrophic flash floods that have claimed at least 211 lives in eastern Spain, Atlético Madrid manager Diego Simeone has questioned the logic of playing football matches amid the devastation. The tragedy, already deemed Europe’s worst flood-related disaster since 1967, has left dozens still unaccounted for and prompted widespread soul-searching about priorities in times of crisis.
Simeone: Matches Make No Sense
Speaking ahead of his side’s home game against Las Palmas on Sunday, Simeone pulled no punches in his assessment of the situation. “It doesn’t make any sense,” the Atlético boss told reporters, referring to the decision to proceed with this weekend’s LaLiga fixtures.
What is happening is very hard; it is very moving to see the people who went out on the streets to help, who with a shovel and their tools are trying to collaborate and that speaks very well of the country, of the people, and we want to help wherever we can.
There are people having a very hard time, it’s very sad and they tell us to continue and here we are, continuing.
– Diego Simeone, Atlético Madrid manager
Valencia vs Real Madrid Postponed
Simeone’s comments come as several games, including the high-profile clash between Valencia and Real Madrid, have been postponed over the weekend due to the floods. The Valencia region has been among the hardest hit, with Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez confirming the area has suffered Europe’s deadliest flash floods in modern history.
While football pales in comparison to the loss of life and destruction of homes and livelihoods, the question of whether matches should proceed in such circumstances has sparked debate. Some argue that the games can provide a much-needed distraction and boost morale, while others echo Simeone’s sentiments that it feels tone-deaf and insensitive to carry on as normal.
Balancing Sport and Tragedy
The Spanish football world has not been immune to the impact of the floods. Osasuna forward Ante Budimir displayed his support for those affected during his goal celebration against Real Valladolid, holding up a shirt with a message of solidarity.
Yet as Simeone prepares his fifth-placed Atlético side for the visit of struggling Las Palmas, he acknowledged the challenges inherent in focusing on football amid a national tragedy.
We have a tough game against a team that has improved a lot since the arrival of the coach. They are more forceful and I imagine a dangerous game, with a lot of counter-attacking, fast people in attack and we will try to have a game with these situations under control and get it out with the help of our fans, which is always fundamental.
– Diego Simeone on facing Las Palmas
The delicate balance between showing respect for those suffering and maintaining some sense of normalcy is one that Spain’s football authorities and clubs must navigate in the days and weeks to come. While the immediate focus must be on rescue efforts and supporting devastated communities, the question of how and when to resume regular activities, sporting or otherwise, looms large.
Solidarity and Support
In the meantime, the football community, like the rest of the nation, has rallied to support those affected by the flash floods. Players, coaches, and fans have expressed their condolences and offered assistance in any way they can.
The road to recovery will be long and arduous for many, with homes to rebuild, loved ones to mourn, and a sense of security to restore. Football, for all its importance in Spanish society, has rightly taken a back seat. And figures like Simeone are using their platforms to keep the focus on what truly matters: supporting each other through this time of immense suffering.
As Spain comes to terms with this devastating chapter, it can only be hoped that the spirit of solidarity and resilience showcased by so many in response to the flash floods will light the way forward. The matches will eventually resume, but the scars left by this tragedy will endure far longer.
