Athletic Club de Bilbao is one of the most respected names in football, and their inclusion in the 2026 tournament highlights their status as a persistent threat to Spain’s elite.
While many casual fans focus on the “Big Two,” die-hard supporters know that the Basque side brings a level of intensity and tradition that few can match.
Their journey to Saudi Arabia this January is a result of their tactical discipline and consistent performance on the pitch.
If you are asking why Athletic Bilbao is playing in the Spanish Super Cup, the answer involves their impressive league standing and the specific rules of the competition.
Athletic Bilbao and the Spanish Super Cup Qualification
Athletic Bilbao officially secured their place in the Spanish Super Cup by finishing the 2024–25 La Liga season in fourth place.
The tournament’s current “Final Four” format typically includes the top two league finishers and the finalists of the Copa del Rey. However, because Barcelona and Real Madrid occupied both the top two league spots and the cup final positions, the remaining slots were passed down to the next highest-ranked teams in the league.
This enabled Athletic Club to qualify alongside Atlético Madrid, ensuring a diverse and highly competitive field.
The Strategic Importance of the Spanish Super Cup for the Basque Side
Qualifying for the 2026 Spanish Super Cup is a major milestone for the club, as it provides a global stage to showcase their unique “Basque-only” recruitment policy.
This strategy has served them well, especially in the 2021 edition when they famously defeated both Real Madrid and Barcelona to lift the trophy. The 2026 schedule pits them against FC Barcelona in a thrilling semi-final on January 7, 2026, in Jeddah.
For a club with three titles already in their cabinet, this tournament is the perfect opportunity to prove they can still outperform the financial heavyweights of Spain.
A Legacy of Success in the Spanish Super Cup
Historically, Athletic Club has been one of the most successful participants in the modern era of the Spanish Super Cup.
They are one of only three teams, alongside Barcelona and Real Madrid, to have won the trophy at least three times.
Their presence in Jeddah ensures that the tournament maintains its reputation for high-intensity, physical football that keeps fans on the edge of their seats.
As they prepare for another high-stakes showdown, the “Lions” are ready to roar once again on the international stage.
Do you think Athletic Bilbao’s unique recruitment policy gives them a psychological advantage in high-pressure Spanish Super Cup matches?
