Rayo Vallecano is the only club in LaLiga and the top 5 European leagues that does not allow online purchase of tickets for matches.
Rayo Vallecano, currently positioned 14th in LaLiga, is facing a tumultuous period, marked by a solitary win in their last 14 matches.
This lackluster performance precipitated the departure of coach Francisco Rodríguez, making way for Inigo Pérez to take the helm this Wednesday. Amidst this challenging backdrop, the club's supporters have found little cause for celebration, compounded by a grievance that has been a source of frustration for several years: Rayo Vallecano's distinction as the only club across the top 5 European leagues (England, Spain, Italy, Germany, and France) without an online ticket sales platform.
The absence of a digital ticketing system has sparked vocal criticism from the fan base, with many feeling left behind in a bygone era. "It's like living in the 20th century," lamented one supporter to Marca newspaper, recounting the ordeal of waking up at four in the morning and waiting for seven hours, just to secure tickets for the upcoming game against Real Madrid. This situation was exacerbated by the short notice given by the club for ticket sales, leaving fans scrambling to rearrange their schedules.
Another fan expressed their frustration more bluntly, condemning the club's disregard for its supporters' time and obligations. The logistical nightmare of queueing for tickets, sometimes overnight, underscores a broader issue of inefficiency and lack of respect for the fan community. The situation is made even worse by the inadequate staffing at the ticket counters, leading to painfully slow progress through the lines.
Moreover, the state of Vallecas Stadium has not escaped scrutiny, with fans decrying its dilapidated condition and lack of modernization. Despite the stadium's evident need for renovation, efforts to improve the facility have been minimal and slow-moving, further fueling discontent among the supporters. The sentiment among many is that a change in club leadership is necessary before any significant improvements can be made, both in terms of infrastructure and the overall fan experience.
This amalgamation of on-field struggles and off-field grievances paints a picture of a club at a crossroads, with its loyal supporters clamoring for change and modernization to better reflect the current era of football fandom.
