FC Zürich
Austrian football team.
FC Zürich is a professional football club based in Zürich, Switzerland. Founded in 1896, it is one of the most successful clubs in Swiss football history. FC Zürich competes in the Swiss Super League, the top tier of Swiss football, and has a long-standing reputation as one of the country's leading teams.
The club plays its home matches at the Letzigrund Stadium, which has a capacity of 26,500 spectators. The stadium, which was rebuilt in 2007, is shared with local rivals Grasshopper Club Zürich. FC Zürich's colors are white and blue, which are prominently featured in their home kit.
Throughout its history, FC Zürich has enjoyed considerable success in domestic competitions. The club has won the Swiss Super League title 13 times, with their most recent championship coming in 2022. They have also claimed 10 Swiss Cup victories, further cementing their status as one of Switzerland's most decorated clubs.
FC Zürich's first major period of success came in the 1960s and 1970s when they won seven league titles between 1963 and 1976. This era also saw the club make significant strides in European competitions. In 1964, FC Zürich reached the semi-finals of the European Cup (now UEFA Champions League), losing to Real Madrid. This remains the club's best performance in Europe's premier club competition.
The club experienced another golden period in the early 2000s, winning three league titles between 2006 and 2009. This success was built on a strong core of Swiss players complemented by talented foreign imports. During this period, FC Zürich also made regular appearances in European competitions, enhancing their reputation on the continental stage.
FC Zürich has a strong rivalry with Grasshopper Club Zürich, with whom they contest the Zürich derby. These matches are among the most anticipated fixtures in the Swiss football calendar and reflect the sporting rivalry between the two most successful clubs in the city.
FC Zürich has a large and passionate fan base, with supporters known for creating a vibrant atmosphere at the Letzigrund Stadium. The "Südkurve" (South Stand) is particularly renowned for its vocal support and impressive displays.
In recent years, FC Zürich has faced increased competition from other Swiss clubs, particularly Young Boys and Basel. While they have not been as dominant in the league as in previous decades, FC Zürich remains a consistent challenger for top positions and European qualification spots. As of 2024, FC Zürich continues to be one of the leading clubs in Swiss football.