Elche Football Club announced an immediate halt to the weekly market held at the Martínez Valero stadium, citing concerns about irregularities detected in the recruitment process. In its statement, the club urged event organizers and participating companies to provide clarification on specific aspects of the contracts between the parties involved.
As one of the organizers of this Sunday market, which takes place in the stadium’s parking area, Elche CF also plans a Thursday edition and asserts that all necessary licenses, permits, authorizations, and mandatory insurance are in place for an event on its own property, thus bearing responsibility for any issues arising from the market’s operation on those days.
The club acknowledges that the decision could upset some third parties, but emphasizes that the move is taken not only to defend its own interests but also to protect public safety and well-being.
Elche CF blocks market opening at Martínez Valero stadium
concession until 2042
The market arrangement involves around 200 stalls near the stadium every Sunday. A contract signed in 2012 linked the market to Elche CF, with the aim of sustaining the operation through 2037 under the club presidency of José Sepulcre. The party responsible for the street stalls, Diego Fuentes, who also serves as vice president of the club, has stated that 1.8 million euros were paid as part of the arrangement.
In 2018, the franchise was extended for an additional five years, extending the terms through 2042, though it also entailed a decrease of about a quarter of the market area due to the planned construction of a shopping complex that ultimately did not proceed.
Everything is fine
Following the temporary suspension, the market operator issued assurances after Elche CF prohibited the setup of 80 stalls. City permits and certifications were reported as in order, including medical clearances, ambulance provisions, fire safety equipment, accessible facilities, and civil liability insurance. Vendors were observed preparing to set up on the day of the suspension, with security fences already anchored and guards ready to control access. Company representatives indicated that the decision was communicated to them the previous evening, leaving little time to respond and adapt.