RFEF Examines Deteriorated Riazor Pitch Ahead of Spain‑Iraq Match

The Spanish Football Federation is conducting an urgent inspection of the Riazor stadium ahead of the Spain‑Iraq fixture scheduled in three days. Officials reported that the turf is burnt, torn in places and in several sections the grass layer is completely missing.

Because the pitch uses a hybrid surface, converting it to 100 % natural grass within the 72‑hour window is technically unfeasible. The federation is working with Deportivo to find a remedy, but the limited time hampers any major re‑laying.

Additional concerns include broken glass fragments and other damage on the field, raising further safety issues.