Emotions surge far beyond what happens on the pitch. In a moment of unity, a cabinet of voices from the club and its supporters came together in the stadium’s press room to urge fans to close gaps and back the blue and white project with a show of solidarity from the stands, the locker rooms, and the managerial group. This fourfold appeal called on everyone who feels the shield is theirs to help the team return to the third tier of national football after more than a century away.
The sports director, Caramel of the Well; Raúl Ruiz, captain; Coach Sergio Mora; and club owner Enrique Ortiz, representing SAD, addressed the crowd to stress that without the active and passive social base, escaping the current downturn would be far tougher. Hercules faced the remaining three league games with a chance to reach safety, using the day off to organize a historic team photograph and a single, clear message: “We need you more than ever.”
“You all expected much more from this squad—and so did we. We apologize for the missteps and for not making you proud of the team you’ve trusted over the years. We have made mistakes and there were moments when we had little chance of turning things around. Yet we remain committed to pushing forward, and we need every one of you to stand with us. When the moment of truth arrives, we must be united, set aside differences, and fight for the same shield. We will give our best and ask you to be proud of your team. Help us reach this goal,” the team captain stated in a public message, Raúl Ruiz, a lifelong Hercules supporter.
“This season has been tough, with many ups and downs, but the objective is not easy. We are convinced we can do it, yet not alone—we need help. Three crucial matches remain that will shape the club’s future, and your support is essential. The only way forward is together. I believe in promotion and in these players, but every supporter can make a difference,” the technician added, Sergio Mora.
“The club has full confidence in the team’s talent. This is what we need from everyone: to move forward together, including the media. It’s true there were bad days, but there were good ones too. I’m asking this team to achieve the goal because it proves what they can do. I have faith, but effort has to be 100 percent and focused because the margin for error is gone. We cannot escape this moment without us all united,” said Enrique Ortiz. It marked his first public appearance since the previous summer.
“The bad days are behind us. Now we must enjoy the good ones. A little luck and everyone’s responsibility are needed. The players have tough jobs, but there is a duty not to leave them alone. Support from the stands from the first minute matters—this promotion is nearly as important to reach the First Division as any other milestone,” the owner emphasized.
Del Pozo noted that it was not yet clear where the promotion games would be played, but all signs pointed to LaLiga Smartbank possibility through playoffs. Rico Pérez is among the potential venues that can accommodate the Blue and White’s crowd needs for the upcoming matches.
The owner also recalled that the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) determines the route to promotion. While the number of tickets for the promotional phase could be adjusted, there was an implied willingness to take measures to ensure the social audience can access the stadium. Hercules pledged to do everything possible to guarantee that all fans are present, including considerations around ticket access at Rico Pérez and other suitable venues.