Elche CF and Leeds United prepare for a clash tied to the Festa d’Elx as a special moment on a Thursday evening at Martinez Valero. The stadium is expected to be charged with football fever and a celebratory mood that makes the night feel like a grand party. The atmosphere will be boosted by a significant crowd and a sense of occasion that goes beyond a regular friendly match.
More than a thousand English supporters are anticipated in the stands. The event was announced by the club’s former sports director Victor Orta during the trophy presentation held earlier in the Elche City Council plenary hall. In total, thousands of fans from the Benidorm region and the Valencia province are planning to travel to Elche, with multiple direct flights from the United Kingdom facilitating the trip.
The club could not provide an exact figure for ticket purchases as many supporters bought their seats online in the area reserved for visiting fans. Orta praised Leeds fans for their passion, noting their broad reach and the club’s strong away support. He highlighted Leeds United’s global fanbase and the team’s status as one of the most watched in the Premier League when it comes to television audiences. Orta estimated that around twenty thousand spectators could fill the stands on match night at Martinez Valero.
Orta has a long history with Elche, having overseen the club’s sports operations during the 2014-2015 season. He recalled a period that ended with administrative relegation, describing the time as emotionally charged. He spoke warmly about his memories of Elche, including the local gastronomy, festive events, and beaches. He remembered his time living away from home, playing for different clubs, and how Elche left a lasting impression on him and his family.
Orta Departs Elche With Mixed Feelings
In recent remarks, Orta described the return to Elche as a moment tinged with emotion. He expressed gratitude for the experience and the support shown by the city and its residents. The visit included a gesture from the city’s mayor, who presented a Leeds United shirt to Orta and talked about future collaborations, including the possibility of participation in local events such as the Elche Half Marathon scheduled for March. The sense of mutual respect was clear, as Orta spoke about the warmth he felt during his stay and the enduring connection with Elche and its people.
On the campaign front, Leeds United expressed positive sentiments about the reunion with Elche. The club emphasized the chance to reciprocate the goodwill it has received from Elche and its supporters. Officials involved in player scouting and corporate affairs took part in detailed planning to ensure the match would proceed on dates chosen to align with the World Cup break. The conversations underscored a shared enthusiasm for delivering a meaningful encounter between the two clubs, one that honors the past and points toward future opportunities. Orta noted the pride in returning to a beloved city and seeing friends and staff again after a period away. The event was framed as a celebration of football culture and cross-border camaraderie, with both sides looking forward to a memorable evening in Elche.