No reason to cancel El Clasico says head of Spain's sports council

Miguel Cardenal – Secretary of State for Sport in Spain

The most awaited fixture in La Liga, El Clasico, featuring the two Spanish giants Real Madrid and Barcelona will go ahead as per schedule. Spain’s Secretary of State for Sport, Miguel Cardenal has said there is no reason to consider cancelling the Clasico in the wake of the terror attacks in Paris on Friday, according to AS.

The friendly between France and Germany at the Stade de France was one of the locations targeted in the attacks that killed 129 people. In the aftermath of the tragic event, security has been tightened for Saturday’s game as Barcelona play Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Two international friendlies, Belgium vs Spain and Germany vs Netherlands, have already been called off for security reasons last Tuesday. When asked about the situation of security in Spain and the chances of El Clasico being postponed, he said, “At the moment, there is no reason to call off Madrid-Barcelona.

“The situation in the country is not different than two weeks ago. The best thing is not to think about that. If people see we are considering it, they may come to a different conclusion which is not accurate.

“We must be sensitive to the concerns and respond to the mood among the people after a massacre like this. But our judgment allows us to think it will be a normal game. We all know there is a problem, jihadist terrorism. But the security forces of the state do not rest, and there are thousands of people working on this.

“We are in the best hands. The security measures in our country are extraordinary. We have the strength and security of the state and we know how to protect ourselves. There is no reason to make us think we should change our behaviour. There is no need to think the enemy could attack us this week.

“People should know there is total transparency. If it is said it is reasonable to go to the stadium, for the Clasico, then it is reasonable without a doubt.”

Champions League and Europa League matches will go ahead

Earlier today, UEFA had also revealed that Champions League and Europa League matches next week will go ahead in spite of the terror attacks in Paris.

The statement said: “All matches are scheduled to go ahead as planned. UEFA has very strict rules regarding safety and security in relation to the organisation of matches and is working closely with the home clubs and local authorities to ensure all necessary measures are implemented to guarantee safety for all involved.

“UEFA has not issued directives about travelling fans, it is up to the relevant authorities to decide on such matters.”

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