Rayo Vallecano have been authorized to return to their home stadium in Vallecas following urgent repairs, the Madrid regional government announced on Monday. The team had been temporarily barred from using the stadium after a July audit uncovered multiple safety and sanitation issues.

The Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Sport in Madrid had suspended Rayo’s lease of the Vallecas stadium due to “serious deficiencies,” including problems related to hygiene, health, and overall safety. The stadium, which has faced criticism for its poor maintenance, was deemed unsuitable for hosting matches at the start of the new La Liga season.

As a result, Rayo Vallecano played their first two league fixtures of the current campaign at Butarque stadium, home of Leganés, and are also scheduled to host Espanyol there. The team is expected to return to Vallecas on October 10 when they face Athletic Bilbao in a league match.

Following the urgent repairs, a new inspection confirmed the stadium is “operational and in suitable condition for ordinary use,” according to a statement from the regional government. Despite lifting the suspension, authorities are continuing proceedings to potentially terminate Rayo’s lease due to alleged serious breaches of contractual obligations related to the stadium’s upkeep.

The issues at Vallecas have also drawn criticism from within the club. Last season, Rayo was forced to play one league game away from home because the pitch was deemed unplayable. Players have publicly protested against the conditions of the stadium and training facilities, as well as the management under club president and owner Raúl Martín Presa.

Rayo Vallecano finished last season as runners-up in the UEFA Conference League, highlighting the contrast between the club’s sporting success and its ongoing infrastructure challenges. The resolution of the stadium’s condition may offer some relief, but the broader concerns over management and maintenance remain under scrutiny.