Agent Agusto Paraja, who speaks for Spartak Moscow players Jesus Medina and Alexis Duarte, as well as club captain Fabian Balbuena, stated that the players have no intention of leaving Russia following the recent events. The message from Paraja reflected a firm stance from the squad amid a crisis that has shook the football community and the wider city. The impression he conveyed was one of quiet resolve and a commitment to continue their professional duties in the country where they have built their careers, despite the shock and tragedy felt by the city and its fans.
Paraja extended his respect and condolences to the victims of the violent terrorist attack, acknowledging the deep sorrow and pain caused by the incident. He emphasized that the players do not plan to abandon their commitments in Russia, asserting that their focus remains on their sporting responsibilities and on supporting those affected by the tragedy. His comments underscored a desire for stability and solidarity at a time of great uncertainty for many in the football community and the general public.
Because of the attack, Spartak Moscow canceled the upcoming match against Azerbaijani side Neftchi. The fixture had been scheduled for March 23 at 17:00 Moscow time and was to take place in Baku. The decision to postpone or cancel reflected the club’s sensitivity to safety concerns and the seriousness of the incident, as well as the broader impact on both teams, their fans, and the competitions they participate in. The cancellation also highlighted the forfeit of normal sporting routines during a period of national mourning and security review.
On the evening of March 22, a terrorist attack unfolded at the Crocus City Hall concert venue in Krasnogorsk. Reportedly, gunmen entered the hall before a performance by a touring music group, spraying the audience with gunfire as explosions followed and a blaze started. The events prompted immediate responses from emergency services and local authorities, with ongoing coverage and analysis from media outlets at the time. The incident sent shockwaves through the city and raised questions about public safety, security measures at large events, and the broader implications for regional security in the capital region.
Spartak Moscow currently sits in sixth place in the Russian Premier League standings with 31 points. Earlier in the season, the team suffered a 0-2 defeat to Fakel, a result that affected their position in the table and prompted reflections on form and strategy as the campaign continued. In their next league outing, the red-and-white squad is set to host Ural Yekaterinburg, with the match scheduled for March 30 and a 19:00 start time in Moscow. The fixture will be watched closely by supporters and analysts who are evaluating the team’s ability to rebound after recent setbacks and to maintain momentum as the season progresses toward the spring break and the final stretch of fixtures.
In response to the Crocus City Hall attack, Spartak announced financial support for the victims and their families, aligning with broader charitable and social initiatives undertaken by clubs in times of national distress. The club’s leadership communicated a commitment to contributing to relief efforts and to standing in solidarity with those affected, reflecting a broader culture of responsibility that extends beyond the pitch and into the community at large.