La Liga has postponed Celta Vigo’s opening fixture against Osasuna until August 27. The league confirmed the decision on Thursday after an inspection found a turf disease at Celta’s stadium.
Recent rainfall had reportedly worsened the condition of the pitch, which was deemed unsuitable for Sunday’s match. La Liga officials had already inspected Balaidos once.
During a visit last week, they assessed the pitch and approved the repair work being carried out by Celta’s ground staff. That changed on Wednesday. A follow-up inspection found the fungal outbreak had worsened.
Celta addressed the setback in a statement, saying recent weather conditions had adversely affected the pitch's progress.
Why Celta Vigo’s Season Opener Was Postponed
Celta had the option to postpone the fixture before the pitch issue emerged but chose against it.
Because striker Borja Iglesias reached the World Cup final with Spain in July, the club was eligible to request a later opening fixture, the same provision was used by Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia. Celta declined that option.
They insisted on starting the season on its original date. Osasuna were ready to play through the fungus outbreak. It was Celta who filed the formal request to postpone once the pitch was ruled unfit.
La Liga has rescheduled Celta's season opener. The new date was agreed upon with the Spanish Football Federation.
