125 Facts about Athletic Bilbao Football Club

In the bustling era of late 19th-century Bilbao, football fever arrived with migrant workers drawn to its coal mines and shipyards. These newcomers ignited a passion for the beautiful game, leading to the birth of Bilbao Football Club. In 1898, a spark was lit when Basque students returning from studies in Britain shared their newfound love for football, founding the Athletic Club. A historic meeting at Café Garcia in 1901 forged a path to unify these early clubs. In 1902, they competed as Biscay and brought home the first Copa del Rey trophy. The merger was formalized the following year, christening the team Athletic Club, though debate persists among fans about the club's true foundation year: 1898, 1901, or 1903. "A Philosophy Etched in Stone" Athletic Club embarked on a path unlike any other in 1911, adopting a Basque-only player policy that continues to define them. This unwavering commitment means fielding players with deep roots in the Basque Country, either by birth or footballing development. Their ability to remain a top-flight force in La Liga amidst this restriction is a testament to their enduring legacy. While some critics dismiss this policy as outdated, Athletic Bilbao fiercely defends these values, which are rare in modern football. This philosophy cultivates an immense wellspring of pride for the club, its fans, and its players. Athletic Club embodies not just a team but a family bound by shared heritage. Los Leones: An Early Dynasty Their nickname, Los Leones (The Lions), is a testament to their tenacious spirit, inspired by their original stadium's namesake, the San Mamés church.