Valencian applause drowns out the booing of King Felipe at the Copa final
King Felipe VI received a mixed reception of applause and boos during his attendance at the Copa del Rey final, with local fans showing support while others voiced their discontent.
King Felipe VI marked his return to the Copa del Rey final for the first time in nearly eleven years, since the Gran Canaria edition in 2015. Upon his arrival at the Roig Arena, he was met with a mixture of applause from local fans and boos from others, particularly supporters who had come from Vitoria and those remaining from Barcelona, who were eliminated in the semifinals. The atmosphere was charged and filled with varying levels of support and criticism, illustrating the complexities of the royal family's relationship with the public.
The local Valencian fans expressed their appreciation for the King, remembering his support during the tragic DANA floods in October 2024, which left a significant impact on the community. His presence at the event, underscored by heightened security measures in anticipation of potential unrest, was ultimately more celebrated than condemned by those present in the arena. The applause from the local fans indicated a level of warmth and gratitude directed towards the monarch, contrasting sharply with the opposing sentiments from other groups in attendance.
This event not only highlights the divided public sentiment towards the Spanish monarchy but also serves to remind and rekindle memories of past support from the royal family during crucial times for the Valencian community. As King Felipe continued to navigate these complex dynamics, his appearance at such public engagements will likely remain a focal point of discussion regarding the monarchy's relevance and impact on Spanish society, particularly in regions with varying levels of affection for the royal family.