The Government delegate in Madrid, Francisco Martín, has called on the City Council to install access controls and clear evacuation routes in Colón square, where a large gathering is expected to watch the World Cup final.
The tension between the Government delegate in Madrid, Francisco Martín, and Mayor José Luis Martínez-Almeida has intensified less than 24 hours before the World Cup final between Spain and Argentina. Martín demanded on Saturday that the City Council install security filters and ensure clear evacuation routes in Colón square, the location chosen by the City Council to set up a giant screen.
“We are waiting for the City Council to finish its work; I have been requesting this for over 24 hours,” Martín stated in an interview on Canal 24 Horas. The delegate has criticised the “improvisation” with which, in his opinion, the mayor has acted. The warning comes after the security coordination meeting, held on Friday, where municipal services —firefighters, Samur, Municipal and National Police— expressed their concern over the “lack of definition” of the event.
Security requirements for the Colón screen
Martín detailed that, for such large gatherings, it is “key” that the area is cordoned off, that there are capacity controls, and filters to prevent the introduction of dangerous objects. He also insisted that evacuation routes must be guaranteed, a basic requirement that, according to him, is still not assured. “I trust that the professionals will correct the improvisation with which the mayor has worked,” he added.
The delegate reminded that if the Spanish National Team wins the match, a route is planned that will start at the Moncloa interchange and culminate at the Plaza de Cibeles, where a “big event” will take place. Although he did not provide further details, he urged fans to attend hydrated and with sun protection, as “high temperatures” are expected. He also assured that there will be “sufficient distribution” to avoid overcrowding.
The celebration in Cibeles and the call for caution
Martín predicted that the celebration in Cibeles will be “huge” if Spain lifts the trophy. He urged citizens to always follow the instructions of the security forces and not to bring dangerous objects. “It is requested that the instructions of the security forces be followed, and that dangerous objects are not brought in,” he repeated.
The exchange of accusations between the two administrations has been constant in recent hours. While the central Government demands more measures, the City Council defends that the operation is prepared and that all protocols have been followed. Madrid fans, for their part, just hope that the final goes off without incidents and that La Roja can bring the cup home.
For the residents of the capital, the recommendation is clear: if they go to Colón or Cibeles, they should pay attention to the authorities' warnings and avoid carrying large backpacks or any objects that could be considered dangerous. Public transport will reinforce its services, and it is recommended to use the metro to access the gathering areas.
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