Athletic Bilbao 100th Aniversary
Athletic Club: A Legacy of Tradition and Identity
Athletic Club, commonly known as Athletic Bilbao, is one of the most historic and distinguished football clubs in Spain. Founded in 1898 and based in Bilbao, the club is renowned for its strong local identity, commitment to youth development, and a unique philosophy that sets it apart from other clubs.
A Home of Passion
Athletic plays its home matches at the San Mamés Stadium, affectionately nicknamed "La Catedral." Opened in 2013, the modern stadium has a capacity of around 53,000 and is known for its vibrant atmosphere. The passionate supporters, known as Leones (Lions), create an electrifying environment, making match days at San Mamés a true celebration of football.
A Unique Philosophy
Athletic Bilbao is famous for its strong commitment to a unique philosophy: it only fields players who are either from the Basque Country or have strong ties to the region. This policy has fostered a deep sense of identity and pride within the club and its supporters, making Athletic one of the few clubs in the world to operate under such a principle.
Domestic Achievements
Athletic has a storied domestic history, having won the La Liga title eight times, with their last triumph coming in 1984. The club has also enjoyed success in the Copa del Rey, having lifted the trophy 23 times, making them one of the most successful teams in the competition's history. Their victories, particularly during the early 20th century, established Athletic as a dominant force in Spanish football.