Overview
The Copa del Rey, officially known as the "Campeonato de España – Copa de Su Majestad el Rey," is Spain’s biggest national cup competition, first held in 1903. Organized by the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), it is one of the oldest football tournaments in the world.
The competition follows a knockout format and includes clubs from multiple divisions, ranging from La Liga giants to lower-division sides. This structure allows smaller clubs the chance to upset elite teams, giving the tournament a strong reputation for drama and unpredictability.
Historically, FC Barcelona and Athletic Bilbao have dominated the tournament, with Real Madrid following closely. The Final is traditionally played at a neutral venue, often the Estadio La Cartuja in Seville, though many stadiums have hosted the event over the years.
Beyond national pride, winning the Copa del Rey grants qualification to the UEFA Europa League and a place in the Spanish Supercopa. The competition remains a symbol of Spanish football heritage, showcasing historic rivalries, passionate fanbases, and legendary moments.
Most Successful Clubs
| Club | Titles |
|---|---|
| FC Barcelona | 31 |
| Athletic Bilbao | 23 |
| Real Madrid | 20 |
| Atlético Madrid | 10 |
| Valencia | 8 |
Selected Recent Finals
| Season | Winner | Runner-Up | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2019–20 | Athletic Bilbao* | Real Sociedad | Seville |
| 2020–21 | Barcelona | Athletic Bilbao | Seville |
| 2021–22 | Real Betis | Valencia | Seville |
| 2022–23 | Real Madrid | Osasuna | Seville |
| 2023–24 | Athletic Bilbao | Mallorca | Seville |
*The 2019-20 final was postponed due to COVID-19; played in 2021.