While La Liga shines as one of the world’s premier football leagues, its true depth hides beneath the surface—a world of secrets, surprises, and unexpected twists that even the most devoted fans might miss. Behind the roaring crowds, dazzling goals, and legendary rivalries lies a mysterious side to Spanish football that few dare to explore.
Some of these tales, filled with moments of sheer improbability that have shaped the league's history, will thrill you; others are bound to astonish—and perhaps even make you question everything you thought you knew about La Liga.
Here Are The 11 La Liga Facts From History
1. Since its inception, 62 teams have competed in La Liga
Since La Liga’s foundation in 1929, a total of 62 teams have competed in the Spanish top division. Over nearly a century, these clubs have come and gone, creating a rich and diverse history within the league.
Major teams like Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Atlético Madrid have dominated, but other clubs have also made their mark with remarkable seasons. From fierce title challenges to relegation battles, these 62 teams have collectively contributed to the vibrant narrative of La Liga, making it one of the most exciting and unpredictable football leagues globally.
2. The Liga Nacional de Fútbol Profesional controls La Liga
The Liga Nacional de Fútbol Profesional (LFP) governs La Liga, ensuring its operations remain smooth and its competitiveness intact. Responsible for managing everything from fixture scheduling to financial fairness, the LFP plays a vital role in maintaining the league’s integrity.
By working alongside the Spanish Football Federation, the LFP upholds La Liga’s high standards, ensuring a level playing field and global appeal. Its leadership has contributed to the league’s reputation as one of the best and most professionally managed football competitions worldwide, drawing international admiration and respect.
3. The league is contested by 20 teams over a 38-matchday period
La Liga is a fiercely contested competition, with 20 teams battling it out over 38 matchdays each season. Every team plays against every other club twice, once at home and once away, ensuring a fair and competitive format.
The intensity of the league’s schedule is a true test of a team’s skill, endurance, and tactical flexibility. Whether aiming for the title, European spots, or survival, every club faces an uphill battle through the 38-match season, making the Spanish top-flight one of the most exciting football leagues in the world, where drama unfolds every week.
4. Nine teams have been crowned champions of La Liga
La Liga’s prestigious title has been claimed by nine different teams over the years, reflecting the fierce competition that defines Spanish football. From the early days of Athletic Bilbao and Barcelona to the modern era of dominance by Real Madrid and Barcelona, a variety of clubs have experienced the joy of lifting the trophy.
Teams like Deportivo La Coruña, Sevilla, Real Sociedad, Atlético Madrid and Valencia have also had their moments of glory. These nine champions have added to the richness of La Liga’s history, representing excellence, resilience, and the pursuit of greatness.
5. Barcelona won the inaugural La Liga title
In 1929, Barcelona made history by winning the inaugural La Liga title, marking the beginning of one of the most iconic leagues in world football. This historic achievement set the stage for Barcelona’s success and established the league as a competitive force in Spain.
With players like Spanish greats Luis Suárez and Paulino Alcántara, Barcelona’s flair and attacking prowess shone through, setting a high standard for future seasons. The club’s first title remains a proud moment in their history, highlighting their key role in shaping the league’s early identity and legacy.
6. Real Madrid holds the record for the most La Liga titles, with 36 championships
Real Madrid holds the record for the most La Liga titles, with an astonishing 36 championships. This unmatched success is a testament to the club’s dominance in Spanish football, dating back to their first title in 1932. Through the eras of Alfredo Di Stéfano and Cristiano Ronaldo, Real Madrid has consistently raised the bar, proving to be an unstoppable force in La Liga.
Major La Liga Champions And Runners-up finishes:
Real Madrid: 36 titles, 25 runners-up
Barcelona: 27 titles, 28 runners-up
Atlético Madrid: 11 titles, 10 runners-up
Athletic Bilbao: 8 titles, 7 runners-up
Valencia: 6 titles, 6 runners-up
Real Sociedad: 2 titles, 3 runners-up
7. La Liga clubs have won the most UEFA Champions League titles (20)
La Liga clubs have set the standard for success in Europe, with a record 20 UEFA Champions League titles to their name. Real Madrid, with a staggering 14 titles, leads the way, followed by Barcelona and Atlético Madrid, who have also made their mark on the continental stage.
This impressive record is a reflection of the league’s ability to produce world-class teams capable of dominating European football. La Liga’s impressive Champions League tally further solidifies its reputation as the home of the most successful clubs in European club football. Additionally, La Liga clubs have also won the most UEFA Europa League (14), UEFA Super Cup (16), and FIFA Club World Cup (8) titles.
8. Players from La Liga have accumulated the highest number of Ballon d'Or awards (24)
La Liga players have accumulated a record 24 Ballon d'Or awards, more than any other league in the world. This includes numerous wins by Lionel Messi (6) and Cristiano Ronaldo (4), who have defined the league with their extraordinary talents.
Their performances didn't just capture individual accolades, they also helped in raising the profile of La Liga globally. With countless other legendary players, such as Alfredo Di Stéfano, Karim Benzema and Luka Modric, La Liga has become synonymous with elite footballing talent and has produced the most decorated individuals in football history.
Andoni Zubizarreta holds the record for the most appearances, with 622 matches played. Meanwhile, Lionel Messi holds the record for the most goals scored in La Liga, with a staggering 474 goals.
9. The La Liga format follows a double round-robin system
La Liga’s structure is based on a double round-robin system, ensuring each of the 20 teams plays every other team twice—once at home and once away. This format guarantees fairness, as all teams have equal opportunities to collect points on their home turf and away.
Over 38 matchdays, this system intensifies the competition, with every game carrying weight. Teams battle for crucial points, whether striving for the title, European spots, or survival, and the format keeps the excitement high until the very last matchday of the season.
10. Only Athletic Bilbao, Barcelona, and Real Madrid have played in every La Liga season since its inception
Since the creation of La Liga in 1929, only three clubs have participated in every season: Athletic Bilbao, Barcelona, and Real Madrid. This achievement underscores the clubs’ dominance and longevity in Spanish football.
These teams have managed to avoid relegation and remained at the top level, representing resilience and excellence. Their continuous presence highlights their vital role in shaping La Liga’s history, as these three clubs have consistently defined the league’s identity and maintained a standard of performance through the decades.
11. In La Liga, clubs can have a maximum of five non-EU players
As of 2020, clubs in La Liga can have a maximum of five non-EU players but can only include three in the matchday squad. Players can also acquire Spanish citizenship after living in Spain for five years, potentially allowing them to bypass the non-EU restrictions.
LA LIGA Individual Awards
La Liga awards include:
Pichichi Trophy for the top scorer
Ricardo Zamora Trophy for the best goalkeeper
Alfredo Di Stéfano Trophy for the best player
Zarra Trophy for the top Spanish goalscorer
Since 2013, La Liga has handed out Manager and Player of the Month awards.
Commenti