Newcastle United’s encounter with Athletic Club has created a memorable connection between the two fanbases, illustrating their shared passion for football.
Newcastle vs Athletic Club: Uniting Fans in Red and White Bond
Despite being eliminated from the competition on away goals, Newcastle supporters enjoyed a warm welcome during their visit to Bilbao. Fan Tony Waters recalls, “They wouldn’t let you spend anything. I came back with as much money as I went with.” This generosity made the trip particularly enjoyable for many travelling supporters.
A Warm Reception in Bilbao
The kindness shown by locals can be traced back to a previous visit from Newcastle fans, who extended a friendly welcome to their Spanish counterparts. Athletic Club players, including Suances, acknowledged the strong bond formed between the groups, confirming that Newcastle fans were “repaid for everything they had given.” This mutual respect highlights the power of football to unite diverse communities.
Cultural Connections
Both the Basque and Geordie regions share a rich local identity enriched by their football traditions. Bilbao has often been described as a “very British city” by local Athletic supporter Mikel Izagirre. His observations underline the cultural ties that bind the two locations.
The British Influence on Bilbao
- 19th and early 20th Century British industrial influence.
- Importation of coal and exportation of iron and steel.
- Numerous miners and engineers from North-East England contributed to the local culture.
This historical connection led to the founding of Athletic Club, which opted for the name “Athletic” rather than the Spanish equivalent “Atletico,” honoring its British roots. Thousands of students also traveled between the regions, further intertwining their fates through the shared love of football.
The bond between Newcastle and Athletic Club exemplifies how football transcends borders, fostering friendships and mutual respect among fans passionate about their teams.
