Riot police are set to be deployed to Benidorm as part of a security operation for the upcoming World Cup in the popular holiday destination favored by British tourists. The town council in the Costa Blanca resort has announced additional police presence during evenings and nights to manage the anticipated influx of UK visitors coming to watch the tournament in Spain. Many England supporters have opted to travel to Spain due to the steep costs of accommodation and tickets in the United States.
Fans are planning to gather at bars, clubs, and restaurants in well-liked resorts like Benidorm to catch the matches under the sunny skies. Over the past few years, horse racing enthusiasts discouraged by the high prices at events like the Cheltenham Festival have increasingly chosen Benidorm for its sunny weather and affordable beer offerings.
Local officials have reported a more than 16% increase in air travel capacity during the initial phase of the World Cup, which is scheduled to run from June 11 to July 19. The details of a special security operation in Benidorm for the tournament were disclosed following a meeting between the police and council members to coordinate the local response.
A spokesperson for Benidorm Town Council confirmed the reinforcement of police shifts during the competition dates by both local and National Police forces. The National Police unit assigned to the operation consists of highly-trained officers specializing in public order, known for their role in managing protests and high-risk sports events across Spain’s major cities.
Additionally, members of the National Police’s Alicante UIP unit will be present in Benidorm as part of the operation, which will be adjusted based on the tournament’s progress. Jesus Carrobles, Benidorm’s Councillor for Citizen Security and Public Service, emphasized the need for enhanced surveillance and information dissemination during the World Cup period due to the expected rise in tourist numbers, especially from the UK.
Last year, bookings for flights to Benidorm surged significantly as travelers sought alternatives to expensive World Cup trips to the US. The spike in interest led to a notable increase in flight reservations to Alicante, particularly for Benidorm. The town is anticipated to attract a large number of football enthusiasts, especially in its renowned Little England area. In addition to Benidorm, football fans from England and Scotland are anticipated to flock to Magaluf in Majorca and the Costa del Sol for the tournament.
