Sevilla FC cancelled manager Luis García Plaza's pre-Copa del Rey press conference on Wednesday as a mark of respect for the victims of a fatal train crash in Toledo province. The club made the decision following a meeting between president José María del Nido Carrasco and the communications team, issuing an official statement.
Sevilla FC said: "In light of the tragic railway accident that occurred in Toledo this morning, with numerous fatalities, Sevilla FC has decided to suspend the press conference of Luis García Plaza, scheduled for today, ahead of the Copa match against Sporting de Hortaleza". The conference was set for noon at the training ground before the team's flight to Madrid for Thursday's fixture.
Minute of silence and armbands
The afternoon training session did go ahead, but was preceded by a minute of silence in memory of the deceased. The club president himself joined the gesture alongside the squad and coaching staff. The team will also wear black armbands during the cup match as a sign of mourning.
In its statement, the club added: "Sevilla FC wishes to send its condolences to the families and friends of those killed in the tragic train accident that occurred this Wednesday in the province of Toledo and wishes a speedy recovery to those injured". The incident, which did not involve a high-speed AVE train, resulted in more than thirty fatalities according to initial reports.
Sporting context
The act of respect comes at a time of focus for the team, which is coming off a 2-0 league win over Osasuna last Saturday, a result that improves their recent form to three wins in their last five matches. That victory placed Sevilla sixth in the La Liga standings, with 17 points from ten games, from five wins, two draws and three defeats. The side has scored 16 goals and conceded 16, leaving them ten points behind leaders Barcelona. Their form over the last five league matches reads one win, one draw and three defeats, with results including a 4-1 loss to Real Madrid and a 3-3 draw with Levante. Their next league commitment is on Sunday, November 1st away to Getafe, a side currently sitting 17th. The Andalusians, who have Isaac as their top scorer this season with three goals, will look to consolidate their position after an irregular start to the campaign. Forward Isaac Romero, who scored the opening goal against Osasuna, did so in the 18th minute of play.
The report in full is at Mundo Deportivo
