Spanish champions Barcelona have cancelled their scheduled pre-season friendly against Moroccan side Ittihad Riadi Tangier over concerns linked to the ongoing border crisis in Ceuta.
The match was due to take place in Tangier on August 15 as part of Barcelona’s preparations for the 2026/27 campaign. However, the Catalan club confirmed on Friday that the fixture would no longer go ahead.
In a statement, Barcelona said the current situation made it inappropriate to proceed with the match.
“In light of the current uncertainty and circumstances, FC Barcelona considers playing the match would be inappropriate.”
While the club did not directly identify the cause of the cancellation, reports indicate the decision is connected to heightened tensions surrounding Ceuta, the Spanish territory on the North African coast that borders Morocco.
The area has drawn international attention following a surge in migrant crossings from Morocco into the Spanish enclave, prompting diplomatic and security concerns. Although many migrants have since returned to Morocco, thousands are still reported to be in Ceuta.
The cancellation marks another disruption to Barcelona’s pre-season programme. Earlier this summer, a planned friendly against Preston North End was also called off following the club’s training camp in the United Kingdom, where Hansi Flick’s side faced Birmingham City.
Barcelona are expected to continue their preparations with friendlies against Nottingham Forest in Udine, Italy, and Egyptian champions Al Ahly on August 19 before beginning the defence of their La Liga title against Elche on August 23.
