Standard Liege cancels Spa friendly due to heatwave

Standard Liege announced that the scheduled friendly against Francs Borains on July 11, 2026, in Spa will not take place because an extreme heatwave rendered the pitch unplayable. Instead, the team will meet behind closed doors at its own training centre, with no spectators allowed.

Why was the match moved?

The club explained that the “exceptional heatwave of recent weeks” made the surface in Spa unsuitable. After a final inspection on Thursday evening, staff decided that player safety and optimal preparation must come first. The decision was made in consultation with Royal Spa Football Club and is independent of the event organizers.

How does this affect Standard Liege’s preparation?

Missing the crowd in Spa means reduced revenue and less atmosphere for the squad, but the club stresses that training in its own facilities guarantees the best physical condition. Fans can still watch the game live via media, as was the case for the earlier friendlies in Verlaine and Aubel. The club hopes to reschedule a match in Spa later in the season, possibly during an international break.

What does the current league standing tell us?

Standard Liege sits 8th in the Jupiler Pro League with 40 points after 30 games (11 W‑7 D‑12 L) and a recent form of L‑W‑L‑W‑D. They have scored 27 goals and conceded 35, leaving them 17 points behind leaders Club Brugge KV. The cancelled friendly does not alter the table, but preparation for the next league fixture against Zulte Waregem (home, 2027‑02‑13) remains vital. Josué Homawoo is still sidelined and will miss upcoming matches.