Seville Fortifies Security with Dual Operation for Cup Final and Pre-Fair
The Andalusian capital deploys extensive police and fire services at La Cartuja and the Real, raising union concerns.
By Manuel Cano Heredia
••3 min read
IA
Generic image of a bustling street in a Mediterranean city at night, with blurred lights and a festive atmosphere.
The city of Seville is bracing for a "super Saturday" with the simultaneous celebration of the Copa del Rey final and the pre-fair, activating a robust security apparatus involving local police and firefighters, though unions have voiced concerns about staffing levels.
The Andalusian capital is experiencing a "technical full house" in its hotels, anticipating the arrival of tens of thousands of people to enjoy the Copa del Rey final and the pre-fair atmosphere. Given this massive influx, authorities have designed a dual security operation to ensure public order at the La Cartuja Stadium and the Real de la Feria.
The mayor of Seville, José Luis Sanz, detailed that the Local Police will make a "very significant effort" around the stadium, while the fairgrounds will have its own police deployment. Additionally, two fixed fire brigades will be stationed at the Real 24 hours a day, and 33 AI-powered video surveillance cameras will be used at the Fair.
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"The Local Police will make a very significant effort on Saturday in the vicinity of the La Cartuja stadium, and the fairgrounds will have its own police operation."
From the Government Subdelegation, Francisco Toscano, subdelegate in Seville, announced that the specific deployment for the match will be communicated soon. A mobilization of personnel similar to previous editions is expected, such as the 1,400 from the 2025 final or the 1,511 from 2024. Toscano called on fans to enjoy the event, emphasizing that "Seville is a very enjoyable city."
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"We know that there are some who try to erode the festive atmosphere, and to prevent this, the State security forces and bodies are more than prepared. We call on fans to come and enjoy themselves."
Despite the preparations, Local Police unions have expressed their "concern." The Seville Local Police Union (SPLS) denounced the lack of staff at the control center, while Luis Val, president of Sppme-A in Seville, noted that the Copa del Rey absorbs many personnel, leaving the rest of the city with minimal coverage. Santiago Raposo, from Csif, criticized that the Sevillian police have become an "event police," with extraordinary services only for major events.
Mayor Sanz has assured that for Fair week, more than 1,000 local police officers will be operational, including the Support and Reaction Group (GAR), the elite unit of the force. However, Sanz also warned fans that the Real's booths will be closed during the pre-fair, so they will not be able to enjoy them.