PHOTO: Spanish women’s football team. SOCCER INTERCATION
Following a perceived snub by the Spanish women’s football team, the mayor of Palmerston North has stepped forward to defend his city’s reputation as a capable host for international sporting events.
According to ESPN, the Spanish team, along with their families, decided to move to Wellington from Manawatū before their FIFA World Cup match against Japan, citing the perceived lack of activities in the area as a reason for their decision. However, sources from the team praised the warm hospitality they received in Palmerston North, noting their pleasant stay, the friendly locals, and the excellent facilities at Massey University, where they trained.
A spokesperson from the Spanish team expressed doubts about the claims made by ESPN, asserting that they had been content and comfortable during their time in Palmerston North.
Mayor Grant Smith, in response, highlighted that Palmerston North has successfully hosted other international sporting groups in the past, including Argentina’s national rugby union team during the 2011 Rugby World Cup. He mentioned that numerous high-performance sports events had been organized in the city, and the feedback from international teams had been overwhelmingly positive.
While the Spanish team sought bustling events and activities, Mayor Smith emphasized that Palmerston North embraces its identity as a mid-sized New Zealand city with its unique attractions, such as the award-winning Victoria Esplanade, beautiful rose gardens, and the prominent miniature railway. He also mentioned the Central Energy Trust Wildbase Recovery, a facility that shelters and rehabilitates native birds and ancient tuatara, as a family-friendly attraction.
Despite the Spanish team’s early departure, Mayor Smith maintained a gracious attitude, expressing that they are welcome to return to Palmerston North anytime to explore what the city has to offer. He acknowledged that Palmerston North may not have the size and grandeur of cities like Madrid or Auckland but takes pride in being a vibrant regional destination with plenty to offer.
Ultimately, there are no hard feelings toward the Spanish team, and Palmerston North remains open to hosting future sporting events with its characteristic warmth and hospitality.
SOURCE: NEWSHUB