Athletic Club (Basque: Bilboko Athletic Kluba; Spanish: Athletic Club de Bilbao), commonly known as just Athletic domestically and often as Athletic Bilbao abroad, is a professional football club based in the city of Bilbao in the Basque Country, Spain. They are known as Los Leones (The Lions) because their stadium was built near a church called San Mames, named after Saint Mames, an early Christian thrown to the lions by the Romans. Mames pacified the lions and was later made a saint. The team plays its home matches at the San Mames Stadium, with red and white-striped shirts and black shorts as their home colors.
Athletic Bilbao is the fourth most successful club in La Liga with eight titles to their name. In the Copa del Rey, Athletic is second only to Barcelona, having won it 25 times. It is the most successful Basque football club in both league and cup titles. The club also boasts one of the most successful women's teams in Spain, with five championships in the Primera División Femenina.
Athletic Bilbao is one of three founding members of the Primera División that have never been relegated from the top division since its inception in 1929, the others being Real Madrid and Barcelona. These three clubs, along with Osasuna, are the only four professional clubs in Spain that are not sports corporations but are owned and operated by club members. Athletic's main rivals include Real Sociedad, with whom they contest the Basque derby, and Real Madrid, due to both sporting and political identities. They also have a minor rivalry with Barcelona due to historical significance. The club also contests Basque league derbies against Alavés, Eibar, and Osasuna.
The club is renowned for its cantera policy of promoting young Basque players through its ranks and recruiting players from other Basque clubs. Athletic's official policy is to sign players native to or trained in football in the greater Basque Country, which includes Biscay, Gipuzkoa, Álava, and Navarre in Spain, as well as Labourd, Soule, and Lower Navarre in France. Since 1912, Athletic has exclusively played with players meeting its own Basque criteria. This policy has earned Athletic both admirers and critics, praised for promoting home-grown players and club loyalty. However, this rule does not apply to coaching staff, with several non-Basques having coached the first team.
Despite the implications of the name 'Athletic Club' in English, Athletic Bilbao participates solely in football, unlike other major Spanish teams that have several departments. Previously, sections for cycling and other sports existed before the Spanish Civil War in the 1930s.
When it comes to securing your Athletic Bilbao tickets, 1BoxOffice is the premier platform to ensure you get the best seats at the best prices. Whether you want to experience the thrill of a Basque derby, the intensity of a match against Real Madrid, or simply want to support Los Leones at San Mames, 1BoxOffice offers a seamless and reliable service for purchasing Athletic Bilbao tickets.
Competitive Pricing: Find the best prices for Athletic Bilbao tickets, ensuring great value for money.
Secure Transactions: Enjoy peace of mind with secure payment options and reliable ticket delivery.
Wide Availability: Access to a broad range of tickets for all Athletic Bilbao matches, including high-demand games.
Customer Support: Benefit from excellent customer service to assist with any queries or concerns regarding your Athletic cheap Bilbao tickets online.
Don't miss the chance to support Athletic Bilbao as they compete in La Liga and the Copa del Rey. Visit 1BoxOffice today to get your Athletic Bilbao tickets and be part of the excitement at San Mames!
Experience the exhilarating atmosphere of Athletic Bilbao matches with a variety of ticket options designed to fit every fan's budget. 1BoxOffice is proud to offer an extensive range of tickets, ensuring accessibility for all supporters. Whether you prefer premium seating or more budget-friendly options, purchasing Athletic Bilbao tickets online has never been more convenient. Secure your spot at the match today and immerse yourself in the excitement of live football with 1BoxOffice. Don't miss the chance to support Los Leones and witness world-class football action firsthand.
Planning and construction for the new San Mames Stadium began as early as 2004, with initial contracts signed in 2006 after receiving approval in March of that year. The new stadium was constructed adjacent to the original San Mames on land previously occupied by the Bilbao International Trade Fair until 2003. The ground-breaking ceremony took place on 26 May 2010, attended by notable figures such as the Lehendakari of the Basque Country, Patxi López, and the Mayor of Bilbao, Iñaki Azkuna. A symbolic display included the transfer of a piece of turf and a brick from the old stadium to the new site by a human chain of famous players and club supporters.
Initially, three-quarters of the new stadium were built, allowing matches to be held while the old stadium was demolished to make room for the completion of the new arena. Despite economic challenges, 52.6% of the total €211 million cost was covered by public institutions, including contributions from the Basque Government, Bilbao City Council, and Biscay Provincial Council, as well as Athletic Club and BBK/Kutxabank.
San Mames was inaugurated on 16 September 2013 with an official capacity of 35,686. The first match played was a league game against Celta Vigo, which Athletic won 3-2. The first goal in the new stadium was scored by Celta's Charles, while Mikel San José became Athletic's first scorer in the new venue.
The stadium reached its full capacity with a Champions League playoff match against Napoli on 27 August 2014, attended by 49,017 fans. Over time, roof extensions were added to improve protection against rain, completed by November 2016 at a cost of €12.6 million. The roof design won an international structural engineering award in 2017.
San Mames features a sophisticated exterior lighting system, enabling dynamic light displays. It is also equipped with a giant external video screen overlooking the Pozas, a popular walking route for fans on matchdays. The tradition of visiting team captains paying homage to Athletic's early idol, Pichichi, continues at the new stadium.
In August 2017, Athletic Club opened their new museum at San Mames, featuring notable artifacts such as a stuffed lion won in a bet and historical displays. Safe standing rail seats were introduced in 2019, and a singing section was established in 2022. As part of Athletic's 125th anniversary celebrations, a statue of appearance record holder José Ángel Iribar was unveiled in 2023.
For fans eager to witness the thrilling performances of Athletic Bilbao live, 1BoxOffice is the premier platform for purchasing tickets. Known for its seamless booking experience and competitive pricing, 1BoxOffice offers a variety of ticket options to suit every fan's needs. Whether you're looking for general admission tickets or premium seating, 1BoxOffice ensures that you can secure the best seats at the best prices.
1BoxOffice's user-friendly interface makes it easy to browse upcoming fixtures, select your preferred match, and book your tickets in just a few clicks. The platform also provides detailed information about each match, including venue details, seating arrangements, and any special offers or discounts available. By choosing 1BoxOffice, you can be confident that you are getting the most value for your money while supporting Los Leones in their quest for glory.
Don't miss out on the chance to be part of the electrifying atmosphere at San Mames Stadium and other iconic venues where Athletic Bilbao competes. Visit 1BoxOffice today to secure your tickets and experience the excitement of live football action featuring some of the world's best players.
Step1
Visit the 1BoxOffice Website:
Begin your ticket-buying journey by navigating to the official 1BoxOffice website, your premier destination for securing tickets to Athletic Bilbao matches.
Step2
Explore Available Matches:
Dive into the extensive lineup of upcoming Athletic Bilbao fixtures displayed on the platform. Discover a diverse array of exciting matchup to choose from.
Step3
Select Your Preferred Fixture:
Browse through the list of Athletic Bilbao fixtures and identify the match that aligns with your preferences and schedule, ensuring an unforgettable football experience.
Step4
Choose Ticket Category:
Select your desired ticket category, considering factors such as seating preferences and budget considerations, to customize your matchday experience.
Step5
Browse Seating Options:
Explore the various seating options available at San Mames Stadium, the iconic home stadium of Athletic Bilbao. Find the perfect vantage point to witness the thrilling action on the pitch.
Step6
Confirm Ticket Quantity:
Specify the number of Athletic Bilbao tickets needed to accommodate your group size, ensuring seamless coordination for an enjoyable outing with friends or family.
Step7
Proceed to Secure Checkout:
Finalize your ticket selection and proceed to the secure checkout process. Review your order details carefully and make any necessary adjustments before proceeding.
Step8
Provide Contact Information:
Enter your contact details to facilitate smooth communication and ensure the timely delivery of your Athletic Bilbao tickets.
Step9
Choose Your Preferred Delivery Method:
Select your preferred delivery method, whether electronic or physical. Receive your Athletic Bilbao tickets promptly and conveniently in preparation for matchday.
Step10
Complete the Payment Proces:
Safely and securely complete the payment process using the available payment options provided by 1BoxOffice. Enjoy peace of mind throughout the transaction.
Step11
Receive Confirmation:
Following the successful completion of the transaction, expect to receive a confirmation email or notification containing your Athletic Bilbao ticket details and relevant information.
Step12
Immerse Yourself in the Matchday Atmosphere:
With your Athletic Bilbao tickets securely procured through 1BoxOffice, anticipate an exhilarating matchday experience at San Mames Stadium. Immerse yourself in the electrifying atmosphere of live football action and cheer for Los Leones as they strive for victory.
Whether you're cheering from the stands or enjoying premium seating, 1BoxOffice guarantees seamless access to the excitement of Athletic Bilbao matches, ensuring every moment is memorable for passionate football fans. Buy Athletic Bilbao tickets online now with 1BoxOffice!
Full Name: San Mames
Location: Bilbao, Basque Country, Spain
Coordinates: 43°15′51″N 2°57′01″W
Public Transit: Bilbao metro San Mames
Owner: San Mames Barria, S.L.
Operator: Athletic Bilbao
Capacity: 53,331
- Football: 52,061 (Athletic Bilbao vs Athletico Madrid, 29 Feb 2024)
- Rugby: 52,282 (Leinster vs Racing 92, 12 May 2018)
Field Size: 105 m × 68 m (344 ft × 223 ft)
Surface: Grass hybrid
- Broke Ground: 26 May 2010
- Built: 16 September 2013 (1st phase); 25 August 2014 (complete stadium)
- Opened: 16 September 2013
- Construction Cost: €211 million
- Architect: IDOM, Cesar Azkarate
- Project Manager: IDOM
- Tenants:
- Athletic Bilbao (2013–present)
- Athletic Bilbao B (2015–2016)
- Basque Country national football team (2013–present)
Lighting System: The stadium boasts an advanced lighting system that illuminates the exterior panels in various colors and graphics, similar to Munich’s Allianz Arena.
Facade: Located closer to the Nervion River, the stadium presents a striking image, especially when illuminated at night.
External Video Screen: Since 2015, the stadium features a large external video screen (15.5m x 9.8m) visible from the popular Pozas street, a main route for fans on matchdays.
Tradition of Homage: Visiting team captains honor Pichichi, an early idol of the club, by leaving flowers at a bust located at the players’ tunnel.
Club Museum: Opened in 2017, it showcases the club’s rich history, including a stuffed lion won in a bet.
Safe Standing: Installed in the north stand in 2019 and expanded into a singing section in 2022.
Anniversary Celebrations: Marked in 2023 with a feature depicting the old pitch’s goal lines and a statue of record holder Jose Angel Iribar.
Football: Home to Athletic Bilbao and host to Basque Country national team friendlies.
Rugby: Hosted the 2018 European Rugby Challenge Cup and Champions Cup finals.
Concerts: Venue for the MTV World Stage in 2018, headlined by Berri Txarrak, Muse, and Crystal Fighters.
Cycling: The neutralized start of stage 13 of the 2019 Vuelta a España and the Grand Départ of the 2023 Tour de France took place here.
Women's Football: Set a Spanish attendance record for a women’s football match in 2019.
Sports Building of the Year: Awarded in 2015 at the World Architecture Festival in Singapore.
Beam Back Event: In May 2015, the stadium held a beam back event for fans to watch the Copa del Rey final on giant screens installed on the pitch.
Immerse yourself in the excitement of Athletic Bilbao matches and other events at the iconic San Mames Stadium with tickets secured through 1BoxOffice. As the top platform for purchasing Athletic Bilbao tickets online, 1BoxOffice offers a seamless booking experience, ensuring fans can enjoy live sports action at competitive prices. Whether you're cheering for Athletic Bilbao or attending a major concert, 1BoxOffice guarantees an unforgettable experience for passionate sports and entertainment enthusiasts. Buy Athletic Bilbao tickets online now and witness the excitement live from San Mames Stadium.
Athletic Bilbao competes in La Liga, Spain's premier football league, playing a total of 38 games each season. The club hosts 19 home games at San Mames Stadium and plays 19 away games, providing fans with thrilling football action both at their iconic home ground and across Spain.
1BoxOffice offers a wide range of hospitality and season ticket options for Athletic Bilbao matches, allowing fans to enjoy premium amenities and exclusive access to action-packed games. With convenient online booking, securing Athletic Bilbao hospitality and season tickets has never been easier.
When purchasing Athletic Bilbao tickets through 1BoxOffice, fans can access comprehensive game information, including match schedules, venue details, and seating options. Stay informed and prepared for an unforgettable matchday experience with all the essential details provided on the 1BoxOffice platform.
The main rivals of Athletic Bilbao are Real Sociedad, Real Madrid, FC Barcelona, and RCD Espanyol. Matches against these clubs often spark intense competition and passionate support, adding excitement and significance to the Spanish football landscape.
Witness the talents of Athletic Bilbao's top players live in action by purchasing tickets through 1BoxOffice. From left winger Nico Williams to attacking midfielder Oihan Sancet and right winger Iñaki Williams, the Athletic Bilbao squad boasts exceptional talent that promises excitement and entertainment on the field.
As the leading platform for buying Athletic Bilbao tickets online, 1BoxOffice offers fans the opportunity to secure their seats at competitive prices. Whether you're cheering from the stands at San Mames Stadium or enjoying the action from premium hospitality areas, 1BoxOffice ensures a seamless booking experience for passionate Athletic Bilbao supporters.
Athletic Bilbao has a proud history in Spanish football, winning the national championship eight times. These victories highlight the club's longstanding tradition of excellence and competitiveness.
- Spanish Champion: 1929/30, 1930/31, 1933/34, 1935/36, 1942/43, 1955/56, 1982/83, 1983/84
The club's success in the Spanish Cup, or Copa del Rey, is unparalleled with 24 titles. This remarkable record showcases Athletic Bilbao's consistent dominance in knockout competitions.
- Spanish Cup Winner: 1902/03, 1903/04, 1909/10, 1910/11, 1913/14, 1914/15, 1915/16, 1920/21, 1922/23, 1929/30, 1930/31, 1931/32, 1932/33, 1942/43, 1943/44, 1944/45, 1949/50, 1954/55, 1955/56, 1957/58, 1968/69, 1972/73, 1983/84
Athletic Bilbao has also made its mark in the Spanish Super Cup, securing the title three times.
- Spanish Super Cup Winner: 1984/85, 2015/16, 2020/21
Adding to their impressive list of achievements, Athletic Bilbao won the Copa Eva Duarte once, further cementing their legacy in Spanish football.
- Copa Eva Duarte Winner: 1950/51
Immerse yourself in the rich history and thrilling present of Athletic Bilbao by securing your tickets through 1BoxOffice. As the top platform for purchasing Athletic Bilbao tickets online, 1BoxOffice offers fans a seamless and affordable booking experience. Whether you're looking for the best seats at San Mames Stadium or simply want to catch a game at a great price, 1BoxOffice ensures you won't miss a moment of the action.
With competitive prices and a user-friendly platform, 1BoxOffice makes it easy for fans to support Athletic Bilbao live. Don't miss out on witnessing the excitement of La Liga matches, historic rivalries, and the exceptional talent of players like Nico Williams, Oihan Sancet, and Iñaki Williams. Buy your Athletic Bilbao tickets online now with 1BoxOffice and be part of the electrifying atmosphere at San Mames Stadium.
General Admission Tickets: Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of San Mames Stadium with General Admission Tickets, providing access to standard seating areas. These tickets offer flexible pricing and availability, ensuring that all fans can enjoy the excitement of Athletic Bilbao matches.
Premium Seats: Enhance your matchday experience with Premium Seats at San Mames, offering exclusive access to luxurious amenities and superior viewing options. From Hospitality Packages featuring gourmet dining to Club Seats with prime vantage points, these premium tickets cater to fans seeking unmatched comfort and prestige.
Athletic Bilbao Away Tickets: Show your support for Athletic Bilbao on the road with Away Tickets, allowing fans to join the excitement at rival stadiums. With designated seating sections for away supporters, these tickets promote camaraderie and add an extra layer of thrill to the matchday experience.
Athletic Bilbao Season Tickets: Commit to following Athletic Bilbao throughout the season with Season Tickets, granting priority access to all home fixtures at San Mames Stadium. Enjoy the convenience of priority seating and exclusive perks, along with discounted rates for dedicated supporters eager to experience every moment of live football action.
Family Tickets: Share the joy of matchday with your loved ones with Family Tickets, offering discounted rates for adults and children attending together. With special pricing incentives and family-friendly seating options, these tickets promote bonding and create cherished memories for fans of all ages, fostering a sense of unity within the Athletic Bilbao fan community.
As the leading platform for buying Athletic Bilbao tickets online, 1BoxOffice offers fans the opportunity to secure their seats at competitive prices. Whether you're cheering from the stands at San Mames Stadium or enjoying the action from premium hospitality areas, 1BoxOffice ensures a seamless booking experience for passionate Athletic Bilbao supporters. Experience the excitement of watching Athletic Bilbao live by purchasing your tickets through 1BoxOffice today.
As the leading platform for buying Athletic Bilbao tickets online, 1BoxOffice offers fans the opportunity to secure their seats at competitive prices. Whether you're cheering from the stands at San Mames Stadium or enjoying the action from premium hospitality areas, 1BoxOffice ensures a seamless booking experience for passionate Athletic Bilbao supporters. Experience the excitement of watching Athletic Bilbao live by purchasing your tickets through 1BoxOffice today.
Athletic Bilbao currently sit in fifth place in La Liga with 65 points from 37 games. The team has demonstrated impressive form this season, showcasing their determination and skill on the field. Their strong performances have placed them in a competitive position within the league, reflecting their commitment to securing a top spot.
Fans have the opportunity to witness Athletic Bilbao's journey live by purchasing Athletic Bilbao tickets through 1BoxOffice. Experience the thrill of La Liga matches and support Athletic Bilbao from the stands at San Mames Stadium. Buy cheap Athletic Bilbao tickets now and be part of the excitement as the team continues their pursuit of excellence in the league.
Athletic Bilbao has a storied history filled with memorable matches that have left an indelible mark on Spanish football. Here are some of the most famous games in the club's illustrious history:
1929 Copa del Rey Final: Athletic Bilbao defeated RCD Español 2-1 to win their sixth Copa del Rey title. This victory was significant as it was one of the early demonstrations of the club's dominance in Spanish football.
1984 Copa del Rey Final: In a highly anticipated match against FC Barcelona, Athletic Bilbao emerged victorious with a 1-0 win, securing their 23rd Copa del Rey title. This match is remembered not only for the victory but also for the on-pitch brawl that erupted after the final whistle.
2015 Spanish Super Cup: Athletic Bilbao stunned FC Barcelona with a 4-0 victory in the first leg at San Mames, followed by a 1-1 draw at Camp Nou. This triumph secured their second Spanish Super Cup title, with Aritz Aduriz scoring a hat-trick in the first leg and earning widespread acclaim.
2020-2021 Copa del Rey Final: Athletic Bilbao faced Real Sociedad in an all-Basque final, a historic match that ended in a narrow 1-0 defeat. Despite the loss, the match was significant for the club's enduring rivalry with their Basque neighbors and the return to prominence in major finals.
2021 Spanish Super Cup Final: Athletic Bilbao clinched their third Spanish Super Cup title with a dramatic 3-2 victory over FC Barcelona. The match, held in January 2021, saw Athletic come from behind twice before securing the win in extra time with a goal from Iñaki Williams.
These games highlight Athletic Bilbao's resilience, competitive spirit, and ability to rise to the occasion in crucial moments. Fans can relive these historic matches and look forward to witnessing more thrilling encounters by purchasing tickets through 1BoxOffice. Join the passionate supporters at San Mames and be part of Athletic Bilbao's ongoing legacy.
Dive into the heart-pounding excitement of La Liga football by securing your tickets to watch Athletic Bilbao live in action! With 1BoxOffice, your premier destination for purchasing Athletic Bilbao tickets online, you can ensure you don't miss out on any of the unforgettable moments at San Mames. Whether you're a devoted supporter or eager to experience the vibrant atmosphere of Spanish football, 1BoxOffice offers a seamless booking process with the best prices available. Join thousands of passionate fans and be part of the electrifying ambiance as Athletic Bilbao battles it out on the field. Don't wait any longer – secure your Athletic Bilbao tickets now through 1BoxOffice and get ready for an exhilarating journey through the world of football!
09 Nov. 2024 | 1Boxoffice
The Basque Derby is perhaps one of the most passionate and legendary matches in the Spanish football calendar, and it’s much more than a football rivalry.
08 Apr. 2024 | 1Boxoffice
Athletic Bilbao Ends 40-Year Drought to Clinch Copa del Rey Triumph