Heightened security and travel disruption are expected to affect supporters attending Hearts’ pre-season match against Rayo Vallecano this Friday. The club has tightened entry measures: searches are mandatory, and excessive alcohol consumption falls under a zero-tolerance policy. It also reminded fans that prohibited items such as pyrotechnics are not allowed inside Tynecastle Park. Anyone who refuses to cooperate with searches or breaches conduct rules will be denied entry or ejected, with further sanctions possible under the club’s policy.
Fans should plan their journeys carefully because of ongoing roadworks. Gorgie Road remains closed near Saughton Park, while additional closures and diversions are in place on Princes Street. Traffic Scotland’s road-information service tracks incidents, roadworks and closures across the country, giving supporters a place to check travel updates before setting out. The disruptions are expected to affect travel times to the stadium, so supporters should allow extra time for the journey.
Kick-off is scheduled for 7:45pm, with turnstiles opening an hour earlier, at 6:45pm. The Ticket Office will operate from 9am until kick-off, while the Clubstore opens at 11am and stays open until the match begins. The Tynie Shop, in the Wheatfield Stand, will serve fans before the match and during half-time. It accepts card payments only. The Eighteen74 Bar in the Basic Stand opens at 5pm exclusively for ticket holders and closes at 11pm.
Tickets for the friendly remain available online and at the stadium’s Ticket Office. The club has reiterated that all attendees must comply with entry searches and conduct rules. After the match, supporters are asked not to gather on Wheatfield Street. Players will no longer stop to interact with fans because of health and safety protocols.
The Jambos Jackpot also returns, with a top prize of £5,100 and special jerseys up for grabs. Tickets for the draw can be purchased until kick-off. Stadium kiosks will operate on a card-only basis throughout the venue. To mark 140 years of Tynecastle Park, a special A4 match programme will be on sale for £6 at various points around the ground, including the Clubstore and the Tynie Shop, as well as online via Curtis Sport.
Those unable to attend in person can watch the match live on Hearts TV PPV, with commentary from Laurie Dunsire and Robert Borthwick. Game passes are available through the club’s official channels.
Tynecastle Park, home to Heart of Midlothian, is one of Scotland’s historic football venues and celebrates its 140th anniversary this year. The stadium is in Edinburgh’s Gorgie area, a district often affected by city infrastructure works. Pre-season friendlies are a basic part of club preparations, giving fans a first look at new signings and team strategies ahead of the competitive season. Friday’s arrangements bring together the club’s entry and conduct requirements with practical travel advice for supporters heading to the ground.
