50 Facts About Copa Del Rey

The Origins and Evolution of Copa Del Rey

The Copa Del Rey, also known as the King’s Cup, is one of the oldest and most prestigious football tournaments in the world. Its rich history and evolution have shaped Spanish football into what it is today.

1. 01The Copa Del Rey was first held in 1902, making it one of the oldest national cup competitions in the world.
2. 02The inaugural edition featured just four teams, with Club Vizcaya emerging as the first champion.
3. 03Over the years, the tournament has grown significantly in size and popularity, with over 80 teams participating each year.
4. 04The competition has undergone several name changes due to political reasons. It was known as the Copa del Presidente de la República between 1932 and 1936 and as the Copa del Generalísimo during Francisco Franco's dictatorship.
5. 05The Copa Del Rey was not held in 1937 or 1938 due to the Spanish Civil War.
6. 06The tournament reverted to its original name in 1976 following Franco's death.

Prestigious Clubs and Legendary Players

Many of Spain's top clubs and legendary players have left their mark on the Copa Del Rey, making it a competition full of history and memorable moments.

7. 07The Copa Del Rey is one of the most prestigious soccer competitions in Spain, drawing in top clubs from around the country to compete for the coveted trophy.
8. 08The competition has been won by 16 different clubs over the years, with FC Barcelona holding the record for the most titles with 31 wins.
9. 09Athletic Club de Bilbao has won the trophy 23 times, making them one of the most successful teams in the competition's history.
10. 10Real Madrid has won the Copa Del Rey 19 times, showcasing their dominance in Spanish football.
11. 11The top goalscorer in the history of the Copa Del Rey is Telmo Zarra, who scored a total of 81 times for Athletic Bilbao from 1939 to 1957.
12. 12Lionel Messi holds several records in the Copa Del Rey, including most goals scored in finals with 9, most finals appearances with 10, and most Copa Del Rey championship wins with 7.

Format and Unique Features

The Copa Del Rey has a unique format and several interesting features that set it apart from other football competitions.

13. 13Until 1929, the Copa Del Rey was effectively a national championship, with teams qualifying through their regional leagues. Since then, various formats have been used, including group stages.
14. 14Reserve teams of professional clubs were permitted to participate in the competition starting from 1990.
15. 15All rounds of the Copa Del Rey are single-leg ties, with lower division teams hosting the match and most top-level clubs entering in the first round. The semi-final is the only round played over two legs.
16. 16The winners of the Copa Del Rey qualify for the Supercopa de España and the UEFA Europa League.
17. 17There have been 12 actual trophies permanently awarded to clubs for winning the competition either three times in a row or on five separate occasions and for other special reasons. Five trophies have been awarded to Barcelona, three to Athletic Bilbao, and one to Real Madrid.
18. 18In 2010, Sevilla requested permission from the Royal Spanish Football Federation to keep the trophy they had won to commemorate the victory of the Spanish national team at the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa.
19. 19During the post-game celebrations of Real Madrid's 2011 Copa Del Rey win, the trophy was accidentally dropped by player Sergio Ramos from a double-decker bus, which then ran over it. Ten pieces were found by civil servants when they recovered them from the ground at Plaza de Cibeles. The club received a copy of the Copa Del Rey which is displayed at Santiago Bernabéu.

Historical Significance and Memorable Moments

The Copa Del Rey has played a significant role in shaping Spanish football history, providing memorable moments and epic matches that have captured the hearts of football fans across Spain and beyond.

20. 20The Copa Del Rey has played a significant role in shaping Spanish football history, providing memorable moments and epic matches that have captured the hearts of football fans across Spain and beyond.
21. 21In its early years, the competition was a far more local affair. Matches were played at the Hipódromo in Madrid, a racing track and haunt of the capital’s old aristocracy.
22. 22Before there was the Copa Del Rey as Spain now knows it, there was its precursor, the Copa de la Coronación. This one-off tournament was held in honour of the royal ascension of Alfonso XIII in 1902.
23. 23Initially, the Copa Del Rey was known as the ‘Copa del Ayuntamiento de Madrid’ (or ‘Madrid City Council Cup’) to nod to the power of the local council and its grandees.
24. 24In 1905, it became known as the ‘Copa de Su Majestad El Rey Alfonso XIII’, paying homage to the most powerful man in Spain at that time.
25. 25The competition has been tied up in the vicissitudes of Spanish politics, reflecting the country's tumultuous history.

Iconic Clubs and Players

Several clubs and players have left an indelible mark on the Copa Del Rey, making it a competition rich with history and legendary performances.

26. 26Several successful Basque clubs have participated in the Copa Del Rey, including Arenas Club de Getxo, which won the competition in 1919 and finished as runners-up on multiple occasions.
27. 27Deportivo La Coruña has reached the Copa Del Rey final twice and won both times, including a memorable victory over Valencia in 1995 and Real Madrid in 2002.
28. 28Real Sociedad, founded in September 1909, has been a consistent participant in the Copa Del Rey. They won the trophy in 1987 and reached the final again in 1988, losing to Barcelona.
29. 29In the 2020 final, Mikel Oyarzabal scored the winner from the penalty spot as Real Sociedad beat Athletic Club, which was played in April 2021 due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
30. 30One of the most iconic moments in Copa Del Rey history came in 2011 when Real Madrid defeated Barcelona in the final to claim the title, ending Barcelona’s run of three consecutive Copa Del Rey titles.
31. 31The 2013 final between Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid is another memorable moment. Real Madrid secured a 2-1 victory with a header from Cristiano Ronaldo in the 104th minute, marking their 19th Copa Del Rey title.
32. 32The 2001 final between Deportivo Alaves and Liverpool is one of the most shocking results in Copa Del Rey history. Deportivo Alaves, a relatively unknown club, managed to reach the final in a fairy-tale run, but lost 5-4 to Liverpool in extra time.
33. 33In 1909, Club Ciclista de San Sebastián, a cycling club with a football section, won the Copa Del Rey by beating Español de Madrid 3-1 in the final. However, it was technically the San Sebastián Recreation Club that won under the name of Club Ciclista as theirs was not registered for the cup competition.
34. 34The Basque side Racing Club de Irún, which later became Real Unión, won the FECF showpiece after a replay in 1913, while Barcelona beat Real Sociedad in the UECF competition.
35. 35The first champion of the Copa Del Rey was Club Vizcaya, which won the inaugural edition in 1902.
36. 36In the 2013 final, Cristiano Ronaldo's iconic goal celebration, where he ripped off his shirt in jubilation, displaying his chiseled physique to the roaring crowd, is etched in football history.

Dominance and Records

The Copa Del Rey has seen several clubs and players dominate the competition, setting records that stand to this day.

37. 37FC Barcelona has dominated the competition, winning it a record 31 times. Their success is a testament to their enduring legacy in Spanish football.
38. 38Athletic Club de Bilbao has been consistent in their performances, winning the trophy 23 times and finishing as runners-up on multiple occasions.
39. 39Real Madrid has shown remarkable resilience in overcoming their fierce rivals to win the Copa Del Rey 19 times. Their victories often come with dramatic twists and turns, making them one of the most beloved teams in Spanish football.
40. 40Lionel Messi holds several records in the Copa Del Rey, including most goals scored in finals with 9, most finals appearances with 10, and most Copa Del Rey championship wins with 7. His contributions to Barcelona’s success are unparalleled in the competition’s history.
41. 41Telmo Zarra’s 81 goals in the Copa Del Rey make him the top scorer in the competition’s history. His legacy extends beyond his goalscoring record, as he is remembered for his dedication and passion for the sport.

Impact on Spanish Football

The Copa Del Rey has had a profound impact on Spanish football, shaping its culture and providing a platform for unforgettable moments.

42. 42The Copa Del Rey has played a significant role in shaping Spanish football culture. It has provided a platform for teams to compete at the highest level, fostering rivalries and creating unforgettable moments that captivate fans worldwide.
43. 43The Copa Del Rey has hosted some of the most historic matches in football history. From epic battles between Real Madrid and Barcelona to shocking upsets like Deportivo Alaves’ run to the final in 2001, each match has contributed to the rich tapestry of Spanish football.
44. 44Club Ciclista de San Sebastián’s victory in 1909 marked a significant moment in Basque football history. Although it was technically the San Sebastián Recreation Club that won under their name, it laid the foundation for Real Sociedad’s future success.
45. 45Racing Club de Irún’s victory in 1913 and their later transformation into Real Unión highlight the rich history of Basque football clubs in the Copa Del Rey. Their legacy continues to inspire new generations of footballers.
46. 46Deportivo La Coruña’s victories in 1995 and 2002 are celebrated as significant moments in Galician football history. Their wins over Valencia and Real Madrid showcased their determination and skill on the biggest stage.
47. 47Real Sociedad’s resurgence in the late 20th century, culminating in their 1987 victory, marked a new era for the club. Their consistent performances in the Copa Del Rey have made them one of the most respected teams in Spanish football.
48. 48Mikel Oyarzabal’s winning penalty in the 2020 final against Athletic Club was a defining moment for Real Sociedad. His heroics on the pitch have cemented his place in Copa Del Rey history.
49. 49Cristiano Ronaldo’s impact on Real Madrid’s success in the Copa Del Rey cannot be overstated. His dramatic goal in the 2013 final against Atletico Madrid will always be remembered as one of the greatest moments in the competition’s history.
50. 50The Copa Del Rey continues to be a cornerstone of Spanish football culture, providing a platform for teams to compete at the highest level and creating unforgettable moments that captivate fans worldwide. Its legacy extends beyond its historical significance, as it remains an integral part of modern-day football in Spain.

The Legacy of Copa Del Rey

The Copa Del Rey isn't just a football tournament; it's a cornerstone of Spanish football culture. Since its inception in 1902, it has provided countless memorable moments, epic matches, and surprising upsets. With FC Barcelona holding the record for the most titles and Athletic Club de Bilbao and Real Madrid not far behind, the competition showcases the best of Spanish football. Legends like Telmo Zarra and Lionel Messi have left their mark, setting records that inspire future generations. The tournament's rich history, from its early days at the Hipódromo in Madrid to modern-day clashes, reflects Spain's tumultuous yet vibrant football journey. Whether it's Cristiano Ronaldo's dramatic goals or Mikel Oyarzabal's heroics, the Copa Del Rey continues to captivate fans worldwide. Its legacy is a testament to the passion, skill, and drama that define Spanish football.