Estadio San Mamés, nicknamed "The Cathedral," is the emblematic stadium of Athletic Club, located in Bilbao, Basque Country. Inaugurated on September 16, 2013, it replaced the historic San Mamés, preserving its spirit and mythical atmosphere. With an official capacity of 53,331 spectators, this modern coliseum holds UEFA's highest rating (Category 4), allowing it to host top-level international competitions. Its innovative architecture, including a permeable and dynamically illuminated façade, has made it a city icon and a global benchmark in sports stadium design, earning awards such as Best Sports Building at the 2015 World Architecture Festival.
Athletic Club, officially founded in 1898 in Bilbao, is an institution that transcends sport to become a pillar of Basque cultural identity. Its history is marked by a unique philosophy in elite football: the cantera policy. This unwritten rule dictates that the club can only field players born in the Basque Country or developed in the youth academies of a Basque club. This tradition, maintained for over a century, has forged an unbreakable bond between the team, its players, and a fanbase that sees them as a reflection of their own community.
In sporting terms, Athletic Bilbao is one of Spain's most successful clubs. It is one of the three founding members of La Liga that have never been relegated to the second division, an extraordinary achievement given its limited recruitment pool. Their trophy cabinet boasts 8 La Liga championships and 24 Copa del Rey titles, making them the second most successful club in the latter competition. These successes, achieved with local talent, reinforce the pride and validity of their model.
The team's home is the San Mamés stadium, known as "The Cathedral." Inaugurated in 2013 to replace the historic venue of the same name, this modern stadium with a capacity of 53,289 spectators is an architectural masterpiece. Designed to bring the crowd close to the pitch, it creates an intimidating and passionate atmosphere recognized throughout Europe. Experiencing a match at San Mamés is a complete experience, where the passion for the colors and unconditional support are felt in every corner, making each game a celebration of Athletic's tradition and pride.
The team faces a key month with La Liga matches and the start of their European competition journey, testing the squad's depth.
The red-and-white winger has been nominated for the La Liga Player of the Month award for August after his spectacular start to the season.
The draw for the first rounds of the Copa del Rey has pitted Athletic against a lower-division opponent, with their first match to be played away.
The Athletic fans responded with an attendance of over 50,000 spectators for the team's home league debut of the 2026-2027 season.
Bilbao Athletic began their new season with an important victory at Lezama, with goals from several of their young talents.
The forward reached a historic number of appearances in an Athletic shirt, cementing his status as an active club legend.
The club has unveiled the new shirts for the current season, with a design that pays homage to the team's history and tradition.
Athletic Club has confirmed a series of improvements to the stadium to facilitate access and comfort for fans with reduced mobility.
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