Copa del Presidente

Lore & Background

The competition was founded in 1903, following a forerunner tournament in 1902 called the Copa de la Coronación. It was initially known as the Copa del Ayuntamiento de Madrid, then as the Copa de Su Majestad El Rey Alfonso XIII (1905–1932), later as the Copa del Presidente de la República (1932–1936), and during Franco's rule as the Copa del Generalísimo (1939–1976). The current name, Copa del Rey, was restored after 1976. Real Madrid's only permanently awarded trophy from the competition is the last Copa de la República in 1936.

In Their Own Story

The stadium lights hummed with anticipation as the players emerged from the tunnel, the crisp air of early August biting at their faces. This was not just another friendly; this was the Copa del Presidente. The captain hoisted the ball, eyes scanning the pitch where the rival banners waved defiantly. With a deep breath, he signaled for the kickoff, knowing that history would be written in the first ninety minutes.

Reader's Guide

The Copa del Rey is a knockout competition. Since the 2019–20 format overhaul, all rounds are single-leg ties except the semi-finals, which are played over two legs. Lower-division teams host matches against higher-division opponents. The final is a one-off game at a neutral venue, with the Estadio de La Cartuja in Seville chosen as the regular host for a four-year period starting in 2019–20. Winners qualify for the UEFA Europa League and the Supercopa de España.

Did You Know?

• Real Madrid has won the Copa del Rey 20 times, placing third behind Barcelona (32) and Athletic Bilbao (24 or 25).
• The competition was known as the Copa del Presidente de la República from 1932 to 1936.
• The current trophy was first awarded in 2011; Real Madrid was the first recipient, and Sergio Ramos accidentally dropped it from a bus after the win.
• Reserve teams were allowed to participate until 1990; Real Madrid's reserve team once won the cup (as noted in the official winners list).