Real Madrid opener stands despite Club World Cup run

La Liga Says No to Delay for Real Madrid

Real Madrid requested that their first La Liga fixture of 2024-25 be pushed back if they reach the Club World Cup final in the United States on 7 July. The league’s competitions committee has rejected the plea, insisting every team starts the campaign as scheduled the weekend of 17-18 August.

World Cup Calendar Clash

Los Blancos could play the global showpiece on a Sunday, fly back across six time zones and then kick off domestic action five days later. Club chiefs argued that player welfare and broadcast value would be compromised, but La Liga pointed to its own packed calendar and said the dates were locked months ago.

Tebas Dismisses ‘Secret Pact’

President Javier Tebas publicly denied claims of a prior handshake deal with Real Madrid and city rivals Atlético that would have allowed flexibility. “The schedule is the same for everyone,” he stated, adding that any change would open the door to similar requests from other European participants.

What It Means for Real Madrid

Carlo Ancelotti may need to rotate heavily in the league opener, especially if Spain internationals return late from Euro 2024. The refusal also impacts preseason planning: the touring party to the United States must finish preparations with the possibility of jumping straight into competitive action back home. The club still hope broadcaster negotiations could yield a Friday or Monday slot, buying 48 extra hours of rest, but that decision rests with La Liga.

Our View

A firm stance from Tebas protects the integrity of the fixture list, yet a bit more flexibility would showcase Spanish football on the world stage without punishing its flagship club.