PAMPLONA, SPAIN – Unai Laso and Jon Ander Albisu emerged victorious in the Campeonato de Parejas final on Sunday, defeating Jokin Altuna and Joseba Ezkurdia 22-16 at the Navarra Arena. The win marks the first Championship of Couples title for Albisu, a moment of profound significance for the 35-year-vintage pelotari.
The atmosphere inside the Navarra Arena was electric, with a strong showing of support for Laso, and Albisu. The victory felt like a home game for the winning duo, with supporters traveling from Ataun, a town so closely linked to the sport that some playfully refer to it as the “fourth neighborhood” of Pamplona. The passion of the fans was evident throughout the match, with vocal encouragement for both teams creating a captivating spectacle.
Albisu was named the best player of the final, a testament to his dominant performance. A powerful right-handed shot from Albisu early in the match – sending the score to 2-4 – ignited the crowd and set the tone for the remainder of the competition. The energy in the arena was palpable, fueled by the intense back-and-forth action and the unwavering support of the fans.
The match wasn’t without its tense moments. At 16-19, a challenging shot from Altuna brought the score to 15-20, momentarily shifting the momentum. However, Laso and Albisu quickly regained control, ultimately securing the championship point and sparking a jubilant celebration. Albisu, overcome with emotion, lifted Laso onto his shoulders as the crowd erupted in cheers.
The victory was particularly sweet for Albisu, who played a crucial role in the 2020 strike for Baiko Pilota, advocating for the reinstatement of Laso, along with Jon Mariezkurrena, Iosu Eskiroz, and Víctor Esteban, whose contracts were not renewed following the COVID-19 pandemic. That season, the pair had begun a championship run that was ultimately disrupted, but their perseverance has now culminated in this hard-earned title.
Although Laso has reached six previous finals, this win holds special meaning. He acknowledged the heartbreak of past defeats, specifically referencing the 2020 final that “was taken from them.” This championship represents a culmination of years of dedication and a chance to finally lift the txapela alongside his partner.
The Navarra Arena proved to be a challenging venue for both teams, despite its reputation for favoring long hitters. Joseba Ezkurdia demonstrated his versatility, proving to be a formidable defensive player, even as a forward. The match required both teams to adapt and execute at a high level, showcasing the skill and athleticism inherent in the sport of pelota.
The final wasn’t just a battle on the court; it was a spirited contest in the stands as well. Fans of both teams engaged in a lively exchange of cheers and encouragement, creating an electric atmosphere that added to the drama of the event. The passion of the supporters underscored the deep-rooted connection between the players and their communities.
Looking ahead, Laso and Albisu will undoubtedly savor this victory. Their performance in the final demonstrated their exceptional teamwork and skill, solidifying their position as one of the top pairings in the sport. The win is a testament to their dedication, perseverance, and the unwavering support of their fans.
The next challenge for Laso and Albisu remains to be seen, but they will undoubtedly approach it with the same determination and passion that led them to victory in the Campeonato de Parejas. Fans can follow official updates and schedules through the league’s official channels.
This article will be updated with further details as they become available.
