History
LaLiga has captivated the world for nearly nine decades with its thrilling matches, renowned players, and iconic events. LaLiga’s path from humble origins to current status as one of the most-watched football leagues in the world is proof to the enthusiasm and love for the beautiful game in Spain.
On February 10, 1929, the LaLiga, short for “Campeonato Nacional de Liga de Primera División,” began its initial season. LaLiga is Spain’s top professional football level, a tribute to its significance. This league arose from the necessity to create a competitive national football competition that would unite clubs from various regions while also offering a platform to exhibit Spain’s footballing skill.
The honor of becoming the first-ever LaLiga champions went to FC Barcelona. In the 1929-1930 season, Barcelona’s exceptional performance paved the way for their triumphant victory, setting the tone for their future successes. This victory marked the beginning of Barcelona’s enduring legacy in Spanish football, with the club going on to secure numerous titles in the years that followed.
The Spanish La Liga had 20 teams in its inaugural season, with the following clubs making history as the first-ever participants.
The first goal in LaLiga history was a watershed moment that rippled around the football world. “Pitus Prat” of Espanyol had the distinction of scoring this historic goal. Prat etched his mark in the annals of history on the first day of the 1929-1930 season by finding the back of the net, creating the enthusiasm and excitement that have become synonymous with LaLiga matches.
As football evolved, so did the need for standardized rules to maintain order on the field. In 1970, LaLiga witnessed the introduction of yellow and red cards, a paradigm shift that aimed to regulate player conduct and uphold the spirit of fair play. The first yellow card in LaLiga history was shown to Real Madrid’s José Luis García during a match against CF Elche. The first red card, symbolizing a player’s dismissal from the game, was issued to Real Madrid’s Ramón Grosso in a match against Sevilla FC.
LaLiga has grown into a global phenomenon, enthralling fans on all continents with its magnificent contests and transcendent players. Alfredo Di Stéfano, Ferenc Puskás, Johan Cruyff, and, more recently, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have all graced the LaLiga stage, leaving their imprint on the league’s history.
LaLiga continues to exhibit football brilliance today, providing a platform for budding talents to shine as well as established stars to leave their mark. The league’s commitment to innovation and fan participation has further boosted its image, establishing it as a cultural touchstone that reaches far beyond the bounds of the playing field.
Real Madrid have won 33 LaLiga Santander titles throughout their history but not many stand out more than the one that came during the 2011/12 season.
Jose Mourinho`s side took down Pep Guardiola`s dominant Barcelona and broke a whole host of records along the way.
Los Blancos won 100 points and scored 121 goals - both LaLiga Santander records - and clinched the crown on this day eight years ago. We`ve summarised that season in eight key points.
Fabio Coentrao was the ostentatious signing during the summer of 2011 at 30 million euros, with youngsters Raphael Varane and Nuri Sahin also arriving.
There were various departures, such as Sergio Canales, Pedro Leon, Ezequiel Garay and Fernando Gago, who all didn`t fit into the coach`s plans. The core of the squad had already been built in the years beforehand.