Rayo cleared to return to Vallecas after urgent safety repairs

La Liga team Rayo Vallecano has been granted permission to resume matches at their Vallecas stadium, following urgent safety repairs carried out by Madrid's regional government. In July, an audit had raised serious concerns about the stadium's safety conditions, leading to the suspension of Rayo's lease on the pitch. The deficiencies detected included issues with hygiene, health, and sanitation, as well as other safety problems.

Despite playing two league matches at Leganes' Butarque stadium this season, Rayo is now set to return to their home ground against Athletic Bilbao on October 10. The regional government confirmed that a recent audit has validated Vallecas as being fully operational and suitable for regular use. However, Madrid's authorities are simultaneously pursuing a process to end Rayo's occupancy of the stadium due to alleged breaches of contractual obligations, despite lifting the previous suspension.

Last season, Rayo played only one league match at Butarque since the Vallecas pitch was deemed unfit for play. Players also voiced their discontent over the club's management by president Raul Martin Presa, as well as the deteriorating state of the stadium and training facilities.