Copa del Rey
Spanish football tournament.
The Copa del Rey, officially known as the Campeonato de España-Copa de Su Majestad el Rey de Fútbol, is Spain's oldest and most prestigious knockout football competition, founded in 1903. This tournament features clubs from all tiers of Spanish football, including La Liga and lower divisions, competing in a single-elimination format. Organized by the Royal Spanish Football Federation, the Copa del Rey is renowned for its dramatic matches and the potential for unexpected outcomes, making it a highlight of the football calendar.
All clubs from the top four tiers of Spanish football automatically enter the competition, with no qualifying rounds for lower league teams. Matches are generally single-leg ties, except for the semi-finals, which are played over two legs. Early rounds are often regionalized to minimize travel for teams and fans, as most fixtures occur midweek. The final is held at a neutral venue selected by the Spanish football federation, with recent finals taking place at the Estadio de La Cartuja in Seville.
FC Barcelona holds the record with 31 titles, followed closely by Athletic Bilbao with 24 and Real Madrid with 20. Barcelona and Athletic Bilbao are considered cup specialists due to their historical success in the tournament. The competition has seen many iconic moments, such as Lionel Messi’s famous solo goal in a final and Gareth Bale’s spectacular run against Barcelona in 2014. These memorable instances highlight the thrilling nature of knockout football.
In the 2023/24 season, Athletic Bilbao won their 24th title by defeating Mallorca 2-1 in a closely contested final. The winner of the Copa del Rey qualifies for the UEFA Europa League; if they have already qualified through league standings, the spot goes to the highest-placed team not yet qualified.
The Copa del Rey remains a cherished part of Spanish football culture, celebrated for its rich history and thrilling matches that capture the imagination of fans worldwide. Its unique blend of tradition and excitement continues to inspire passion among players and supporters alike.