Football Festival Derailed by Soaring Temperatures: Madrid City Council Acts Swiftly, Disappointing Fans

The match, with a planned kickoff at 6:00 PM local time, was set to be broadcast on a giant screen erected by the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) in the fan zone at Plaza de Colon in central Madrid.

Both the City Council and the RFEF decided to cancel the event after the Spanish National Meteorological Agency (AEMET) issued an orange-level heat warning. Temperatures in the Madrid region were expected to reach up to 40 degrees Celsius on Sunday afternoon.

"The decision was made to protect the health of attendees, staff, and support personnel ensuring the event," stated the Madrid City Council in a press release, apologizing for any inconvenience caused. Officials urged fans to watch the match indoors with air conditioning and avoid prolonged sun exposure.

A large part of Spain is experiencing unusually high temperatures due to a mass of hot air moving from North Africa across the Iberian Peninsula.

A total of 13 out of 17 Spanish regions were under an orange heat warning on Sunday, while the northern Basque region, bordering France, was under a red warning, the highest level.

"Authorities recommend residents and visitors take precautions during the heatwave, including regular hydration, staying in cool areas, limiting physical activity during the hottest hours of the day, and taking extra care of vulnerable populations," added the Madrid City Council.