Butarque Stadium in Madrid will be the scene of an unprecedented event: the finals of the Copa del Rey and the Copa de la Reina of rugby will be played on the same day. This coincidence not only saves travel but also places men's and women's rugby on the same level. The focus is on the symbolism of sharing the field, beyond the final result.
Hybrid turf for a high-impact duel 🌱
Butarque, home of CD Leganés, features a hybrid turf designed to withstand high-intensity football matches. For rugby, traction and impact absorption are critical factors. The mix of natural and synthetic fibers aims to minimize the risk of injury during tackles and allow for fast-paced play. Pre-match maintenance for the double header will require adjustments in cutting height and irrigation to ensure field stability during the two consecutive games.
The other final: who wins the battle with the turf 🏆
While the teams prepare for glory, Butarque's groundskeepers face their own final. We'll see if the hybrid turf holds up during the first match without looking like a potato field after the first ruck. If the grass survives, the credit will go as much to the players as to the drainage system. In the end, the important thing is that no one slips while celebrating a try, or we'll have to applaud the groundskeeper as MVP.