LaLiga Hypermotion: ‘FIFA Virus’ Impacts Teams & Racing Santander Hit Hardest

March 23, 2026 Dr. Michael Lee – Health Editor Health

The second division of Spanish football, LaLiga Hypermotion, is bracing for another wave of disruptions as the “Virus FIFA” – the impact of international call-ups on club teams – takes hold. As of March 23, 2026, at least 19 players have been summoned to represent their national teams, leaving their clubs depleted during a crucial stage of the season.

The phenomenon, frequently debated within Spanish football circles, sees clubs forced to continue league play without key personnel although national teams compete in international fixtures. Unlike the top-flight La Liga, LaLiga Hypermotion does not pause its schedule during international breaks, a decision that has drawn criticism from club officials. Marca reported in November 2025 that LaLiga Hypermotion is the only second-tier league among major European nations that does not halt competition during international windows.

Racing de Santander appears to be the hardest hit by the current international break, with five players – Eriksson, Guliashvili, Salinas, Peio Canales, and Puerta – receiving call-ups. This substantial loss represents a significant challenge for the club, potentially disrupting team cohesion and tactical plans. Other teams facing notable absences include Málaga (Adrián Niño and Aarón Ochoa), CD Castellón (Cipenga and Mabil), CD Mirandés (Nikic and Houary), and Granada CF (Luca Zidane).

The timing of these call-ups is particularly problematic, coinciding with a demanding period that includes both regular league matches and a mid-week fixture. This compressed schedule leaves little room for recovery or adaptation for players returning from international duty, and places increased pressure on those remaining.

Several players are expected to return in time for their clubs’ matches, such as Dzodic of Almería. However, other situations highlight individual player choices impacting team availability. Barzic, of Cultural Leonesa, has reportedly declined a call-up from his national team to remain with his club, demonstrating a commitment to his team’s campaign.

The impact extends beyond Racing de Santander. Cádiz CF will be without Diakité, Real Valladolid will miss Peter Federico, and RC Deportivo will be without Noubi. The absences are forcing coaches to reassess their strategies and rely on squad depth.

While the “Virus FIFA” presents challenges, it also creates opportunities for less frequently used players to gain valuable playing time. Younger players may be given a chance to showcase their talent, and teams with robust squads could potentially capitalize on the situation. However, the disruption to established lineups and tactical systems carries inherent risks.

The list of players affected by international call-ups as of March 2026 includes: UD Almería (Dzocic), FC Andorra (Áron Yaakobishvili), CD Castellón (Cipenga and Mabil), Cádiz CF (Diakité), Córdoba CF (Requena), RC Deportivo (Noubi), Granada CF (Luca Zidane), UD Las Palmas (Herzog), CD Mirandés (Nikic and Houary), Málaga CF (Aarón Ochoa and Adrián Niño), Racing de Santander (Eriksson, Salinas, Puerta, Peio Canales and Guliashvili), Real Valladolid (Peter Federico), Real Zaragoza (Ale Gomes).