Why is the Copa del Rey final between Barcelona and Real Madrid being played at 10pm local time? Where is El Clasico being played?

React to this story

Spanish giants Barcelona and Real Madrid will contest the Copa del Rey final which will be contested on Saturday evening at 10pm local time. The match is sure to be a thrilling affair with some of the best players on the planet involved. However, some fans have been left wondering why such a high profile fixture would be played so late in the evening. Here is why.

'Well, he has to score sooner or later' - Ancelotti puts his faith in Rodrygo

Video credit: SNTV

The 2025 Copa del Rey final is set to be a thrilling affair, with bitter rivals Real Madrid and Barcelona going head-to-head in the final on Saturday.

The stakes could not be higher for this mouth-watering edition of El Clasico, and some of the world's best players will be on show.

This year's final is set to get underway at 10pm local time (21:00 UK time), leaving some fans scratching their heads and wondering why they would play a football match so late in the day.

Transfers

Madrid agree €140m Diomande deal and offer Vinicius Jr new contract - Paper Round

4 hours ago

Here is why the Copa Del Rey final being played at 10pm.

Where is it being played?

This year's Copa del Rey final will be contested at the Estadio de La Cartuja in Seville.

The 70,000 capacity stadium is being used for the first time since recent renovation work.

'Not nice to see' Ancelotti criticism - Flick

Video credit: SNTV

It may not be home to either of the city's iconic clubs, Real Betis or Sevilla, but the Spanish national team have played there several times in recent years.

Why is the Copa Del Rey being played at 10pm local time?

There is no official reason for the late kick-off time, but it is probably due to the intense heat in Seville, where the previous six finals have been played.

According to BBC Weather, temperatures are supposed to reach as high as 30 degrees Celsius on Saturday.

They are likely to stay that way until at least 7pm, meaning a 10pm kick-off is probably what is best for the players.

Watch the Premier League and Champions League live on TNT Sports and discovery+

Transfers