Beyond the Derby: Unpacking the Origins of Atlético de Madrid
As Real Madrid and Atlético de Madrid prepare to clash on Sunday, March 22, 2026, in a LaLiga match with significant implications for the title race, a common misconception about the origins of the Rojiblancos persists. Many believe Atlético Aviación was the foundational club, but the story is far more nuanced, rooted in the early 20th century and shaped by the tumultuous years of the Spanish Civil War.
From Athletic Club de Madrid to a Fusion for Survival
The story begins on April 26, 1903, with the birth of Athletic Club de Madrid. Founded by a group of Basque students, the club aimed to provide competition to the established Madrid Football Club – now Real Madrid. Enrique Allende was named the first president, and the team initially sported blue and white striped jerseys with black or white trousers, according to the club’s official history. But, the club’s trajectory wouldn’t be without its challenges.
A Nation at War: Football on Hold
Spanish football, like the nation itself, came to a standstill during the Spanish Civil War (1936-1939). Athletic Bilbao secured their fourth LaLiga title during this period, while Real Madrid claimed the Copa del Presidente de la República. The final match was played just weeks before the outbreak of hostilities on July 18, 1936.
Prior to the war, Athletic Club de Madrid wasn’t a dominant force in Spanish football. Having broken away from Athletic Bilbao in 1907, the club sought to establish itself as an alternative to Real Madrid. Early success was limited to two Copa del Rey runner-up finishes (1921 and 1926) and three Campeonato Regional de Madrid titles (1921, 1925, and 1928). The club was a founding member of LaLiga in the 1928-29 season, but finished last in the 1930 season, resulting in relegation to the Segunda División. A return to the top flight in 1935 was short-lived, as they were relegated again in 1936, just before the Civil War brought competition to a halt.
The Birth of Atlético Aviación
During the Civil War, a team known as Aviación was formed, comprised of footballers and soldiers. This team moved between locations including Matacán, Salamanca, Zaragoza, and Madrid. With the war’s conclude, the question of the team’s future arose. A solution emerged through an agreement with Atlético, who had recently been relegated to the Segunda División. This led to a fusion with Aviación Nacional, the sports section of the Spanish Air Force, resulting in the creation of Athletic Aviación de Madrid.
Not the Origin, But a Lifeline
Athletic Club de Madrid faced a precarious situation: a lack of a suitable playing field, a depleted roster, and mounting debts. However, fortune favored the club in the form of Aviación Nacional, which ultimately saved them from potential collapse. The interruption of competition due to the war dramatically altered the club’s fortunes. What had been a struggling team in the second division found itself, through the fusion, competing in the Primera División.
In September 1939, a preliminary agreement was reached. While a formal legal merger was impossible due to differing federation statuses, the path forward was clear. On October 4, 1939, representatives from Athletic Club de Madrid and Aviación Nacional signed the agreement, with Commander Francisco Vives Camino appointed as the president of the newly formed Athletic-Aviación Club.
A dispute arose over a vacant spot in the Primera División, as Oviedo’s stadium had been damaged during the war. The competition for the spot was between Atlético and Osasuna, ultimately decided by a match in Valencia on November 26, where Atlético Aviación won 3-1, securing their place in the top flight.
A Golden Era Under a Latest Name
This marked the beginning of a successful period for the club, culminating in league titles in the 1939/40 and 1940/41 seasons, spearheaded by the legendary goalkeeper Ricardo Zamora. The club continued to compete as Atlético Aviación until December 14, 1946, when the “Aviación” designation was dropped, reverting to Atlético. On January 6, 1947, the club officially became Atlético de Madrid, the name it carries today.
A Legacy of Gratitude
Atlético Aviación wasn’t the origin of the club, but it was instrumental in its rise to prominence. The club has consistently acknowledged this debt. As a symbol of this enduring connection, since 2019, a “Hispano Aviación HD 200D” aircraft, nicknamed ‘Saeta,’ has been displayed near the Wanda Metropolitano stadium, a tribute to the club’s past. A plaque describes the aircraft as a “homage to that brilliant rojiblanca era (1939-1946).”
As Atlético de Madrid prepares for their crucial derby match against Real Madrid, understanding the club’s complex history provides a deeper appreciation for its identity and resilience. The story of Atlético is one of survival, adaptation, and triumph, forged in the crucible of Spanish history.
Next up for Atlético de Madrid is their clash with Real Madrid on Sunday, March 22, 2026, at the Santiago Bernabéu. The match kicks off at 20:00 local time (19:00 UTC). Fans can follow the match live on LALIGA’s official channels and through major sports broadcasters.
