Liga Futve Kicks Off Torneo Clausura Amid Post-Earthquake Challenges

Venezuela's top professional football league, Liga Futve, is set to begin its Torneo Clausura on July 31. The league will operate under special conditions due to the aftermath of earthquakes that struck on June 24, impacting several venues and requiring adjustments to the schedule and locations.

The opening match will feature the Apertura 2026 champions, Carabobo FC, visiting Portuguesa FC. This game is scheduled for Friday, July 31, at 5:00 PM in Barquisimeto. Portuguesa FC will not play at their usual home ground, the Estadio José Antonio Páez, as it has been declared unfit by the Venezuelan Football Federation (FVF) following earthquake damage.

Further matches will take place throughout the weekend and into the following Monday. Deportivo Táchira will face Anzoátegui FC, while Trujillanos FC will host the current Liga Futve champions, UCV FC. Deportivo La Guaira, which led the Apertura regular season, will play Monagas SC. Zamora FC and Rayo Zuliano are set to compete, and Metropolitanos FC will play Academia Puerto Cabello behind closed doors at the Estadio Olímpico de la Universidad Central de Venezuela (UCV).

The Estadio Olímpico is among the most affected structures, with yellow caution tape indicating significant damage. Nydia Ruiz, president of the UCV Foundation, explained that in-depth studies are needed to determine the extent of the damage, though she assured there is no risk to the players. The league aims to bring excitement back to Venezuelan football despite these challenging circumstances.

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The Estadio Olímpico is one of the most affected buildings. It has yellow caution tape; deep studies must be done to define the damage.