Football club ban fans from eating sunflower seeds to protect stadium from ruin

A SPANISH football club have banned fans from eating their favourite food… after their stadium was overrun by RATS.

Second-division leaders Elche could host Real Madrid and Barcelona next season if they win promotion to LaLiga.

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But their Martinez Valero ground has become infested with vermin as a result of fans munching SUNFLOWER SEEDS – and scattering shells on the ground.

Club chiefs have now banned the popular Spanish snack from the 34,000-capacity arena.

They announced: “Elche Football Club has decided to ban the sale and consumption of sunflower seeds throughout the entire Martinez Valero Stadium, starting from our next game against Levante.

“This measure is in response to the need to protect the ground, ensure hygiene and reinforce our commitment to sustainability and respect for the environment.

“The Martinez Valero is not just a football stadium, but a symbol shared by thousands of fans.

“However, the vast consumption of sunflower seeds in recent years has created problems for the building.

“The shells block drains and pipes, damage the seats and affect the paint finishes to multiple surfaces.

“They significantly raise the costs of cleaning and maintenance.

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“They attract plagues of rats and pigeons. And, above all, they put the cleanliness of the stands at risk.

“Despite the constant efforts of the club’s cleaning staff, we need to remove all the shells after every game.

“The shells also damage the concrete underfoot and collect in hard-to-reach areas.

“This decision is not meant to punish any fan, but instead to preserve a communal space in the best possible conditions. 

“Elche CF calls on your collective responsibility to maintain the Martinez Valero as an example of civility, respect, cleanliness and pride in the club.

“We thank fans for their understanding, aware of the value of keeping a stadium fit to enjoy football in safety and comfort.”

Elche, based near Alicante in south-eastern Spain, ended a three-year spell in LaLiga in 2023.

Former Sheffield Wednesday, Preston and Barnsley defender Bambo Diaby, 27, plus ex-Watford man Mario Gaspar are part of their current squad.