Police Prevent Clash Between Atletico Madrid and Real Sociedad Ultras Ahead of Copa del Rey Final
Spanish National Police intervened in the early hours of Saturday, April 18, 2026, to prevent a violent confrontation between radical ultras of Atletico Madrid and Real Sociedad in Sevilla’s city center, hours before the Copa del Rey final between the two clubs.
According to verified reports from ABC Sevilla and Hoy, police intercepted groups of supporters from both clubs who had planned to meet for a fight in the Alameda district after gathering in the Plaza de San Antonio area. The intervention came after ultras were seen wearing black clothing, covering their faces, and carrying sticks that were used to strike urban furniture.
The police operation began when approximately 100 Real Sociedad ultras were stopped in the Plaza de San Antonio as they attempted to reach a meeting point with Atletico Madrid supporters. Officers then deployed to the Calle San Vicente area where a bar was forced to close its doors with patrons inside due to the large gathering of masked individuals.
Later, a similar number of Atletico Madrid ultras were regrouped by police in the Glorieta Olímpica before being transported to the San Jerónimo area. More than 20 police vans were involved in the identification and containment process, with officials emphasizing the historical context of tensions between the fan groups.
The rivalry between the clubs’ ultras has been marked by violence for decades, most notably the 1998 killing of Real Sociedad supporter Aitor Zabaleta in Sevilla. This historical incident continues to fuel tensions whenever the teams meet, particularly in high-stakes matches like cup finals.
The Copa del Rey final was held later on Saturday at Sevilla’s Estadio de La Cartuja, with Atletico Madrid emerging as victors after a hard-fought match. Police maintained a significant presence throughout the city to ensure fan safety and prevent further incidents.
Authorities have not released specific arrest numbers from the pre-match operation but confirmed that the swift police action successfully prevented what could have been a serious outbreak of violence between the historically opposed supporter groups.
For ongoing updates on Spanish football security measures and matchday safety, follow official channels from La Liga and the Royal Spanish Football Federation.
