The next meeting between Real Madrid and Athletic Club is scheduled for May 24, 2026, at the Santiago Bernabéu in Madrid, marking the final matchday of the 2025/26 La Liga season. Historically known as El Viejo Clásico (The Old Classic), this is one of the most played fixtures in Spanish football history. As of 2026, Real Madrid holds the upper hand with over 100 La Liga victories against the Basque side, while Athletic Club remains one of only three clubs (alongside Real Madrid and Barcelona) never to have been relegated from the Spanish top flight.
This guide provides an exhaustive deep dive into the 2026 match landscape, historical head-to-head records, and tactical evolutions of both sides. Whether you are looking for ticket prices for the season finale or an analysis of recent results—like Real Madrid’s 3-0 victory at San Mamés in December 2025—you will find every essential detail here. From the iconic Santiago Bernabéu to the modern “Cathedral” of San Mamés, we explore why this clash remains a cornerstone of European football.
2026 Match Schedule and Dates
The 2025/26 La Liga calendar has placed the second meeting of these two giants on Sunday, May 24, 2026. This Matchday 38 fixture is expected to be a high-stakes encounter, potentially deciding European qualification spots or even the league title, as has happened in historic campaigns.
Earlier in the season, the two sides met at San Mamés on December 3, 2025, where Real Madrid secured a commanding 3-0 win away from home. Fans should note that kickoff times for the May finale will likely be synchronized with other matches to ensure competitive fairness across the league.
Historical Head-to-Head Statistics
As of January 2026, the overall competitive record between Real Madrid and Athletic Club spans over 240 matches across La Liga, the Copa del Rey, and the Supercopa de España. Real Madrid has historically dominated the win count, particularly in the modern era of the 21st century.
| Competition | Real Madrid Wins | Athletic Club Wins | Draws |
| La Liga | 100+ | 52 | 37 |
| Copa del Rey | 13 | 11 | 8 |
| All-Time Total | 125 | 77 | 45 |
Note: Stats are approximate and updated based on the 2025/26 mid-season results.
The Significance of El Viejo Clásico
Before the rise of the Real Madrid vs. Barcelona rivalry, the clash with Athletic Club was the premier fixture in Spanish football. The two clubs dominated the early decades of the 20th century, frequently meeting in the finals of the Copa del Rey, which was then the most prestigious national competition.
The rivalry is also a cultural study of Spain: the central power and global reach of Madrid versus the unique, localized tradition of Bilbao. Athletic Club’s Cantera policy—fielding only players with Basque heritage—contrasts sharply with Real Madrid’s Galáctico philosophy of signing the world’s biggest stars.
Recent Results: 2024–2026
In the most recent seasons, Real Madrid has maintained a strong grip on this fixture. However, Athletic Club’s victory in late 2024 proved that the Basque side remains a dangerous underdog capable of disrupting the title race.
- December 3, 2025: Athletic Club 0–3 Real Madrid (La Liga)
- April 20, 2025: Real Madrid 1–0 Athletic Club (La Liga)
- December 5, 2024: Athletic Club 2–1 Real Madrid (La Liga)
- March 31, 2024: Real Madrid 2–0 Athletic Club (La Liga)
The 3-0 victory for Los Blancos in late 2025 was particularly notable for the clinical performance of Madrid’s midfield, which stifled Bilbao’s high-intensity pressing game.
Tactical Evolution: Ancelotti vs. Valverde
The current tactical battle between Carlo Ancelotti (Real Madrid) and Ernesto Valverde (Athletic Club) is a study in contrasts. Ancelotti utilizes a flexible system that prioritizes individual brilliance and rapid transitions, often shifting between a 4-3-3 and a 4-3-1-2.
Ernesto Valverde, on the other hand, has revitalized Athletic Club with a relentless high-press and verticality. Bilbao’s success depends on the speed of the Williams brothers (Iñaki and Nico) and the creative intelligence of Oihan Sancet, aiming to catch Madrid’s defense high up the pitch.
Key Players to Watch in 2026
For Real Madrid: The focus remains on their explosive front line and the veteran composure of players like Federico Valverde and Jude Bellingham. Their ability to break down Bilbao’s compact defensive block is often the deciding factor in home fixtures at the Bernabéu.
For Athletic Club: Nico Williams remains the most dangerous threat for the Basque side. His pace on the wings frequently forces Madrid’s full-backs into defensive retreats, creating space for late runs from midfield. Additionally, goalkeeper Unai Simón continues to be a vital wall in goal.
Venue Guide: Santiago Bernabéu
The Santiago Bernabéu is currently one of the most advanced stadiums in the world following its multi-year renovation. With a capacity of approximately 81,044, it features a retractable roof and a 360-degree video scoreboard, providing a futuristic backdrop for the May 2026 clash.
For visitors, the stadium is more than just a sports venue; it is a museum of footballing history. The “Tour Bernabéu” is the third most-visited museum in Madrid, showcasing the club’s record-breaking collection of Champions League and La Liga trophies.
Venue Guide: San Mamés
Known as “The Cathedral,” San Mamés is widely regarded as having the best atmosphere in Spain. The stadium’s design keeps the fans incredibly close to the pitch, creating an intimidating wall of sound that has famously rattled even the most experienced Real Madrid squads.
Located in the heart of Bilbao, the stadium is a symbol of Basque identity. Matchdays at San Mamés are preceded by traditional gatherings in the nearby Pozas street, where fans of all generations sing club anthems and celebrate local cuisine before kickoff.
Practical Information and Planning
Ticket Prices and Availability
- Standard Tickets: Range from €50 to €180 depending on the seating tier and match category.
- VIP Packages: Start from €325, offering premium views and catering at the Bernabéu.
- Where to Buy: Only purchase through official club websites (RealMadrid.com or Athletic-Club.eus) to avoid counterfeit tickets.
How to Get There (Transport)
- Madrid: Take Metro Line 10 to the “Santiago Bernabéu” station. Numerous city buses (14, 27, 40, 150) also stop directly outside.
- Bilbao: The “San Mamés” station serves both the Metro (Lines 1 and 2) and the Cercanías train lines, making it easily accessible from anywhere in the city.
Tips for Visitors
- Security: Arrive at least 60-90 minutes early for security checks, which have become more stringent in 2026.
- ID: Always carry your passport or a national ID, as name-matching on tickets is frequently enforced at Spanish stadiums.
- Fan Zones: Visit the official club shops nearby for authentic 2025/26 jerseys and matchday memorabilia.
The 2026 Title Race Context
As we approach the end of the 2025/26 season, the May 24th fixture is looming large. Real Madrid is currently in a tight battle with Barcelona for the top spot, while Athletic Club is fighting to secure a return to the Champions League.
If Real Madrid enters the final day needing a win to secure the title, the pressure will be immense. Conversely, Athletic Club has a history of playing “spoiler” and would relish the opportunity to deny their oldest rivals a trophy on the final day of the season.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the next Real Madrid vs Athletic Club match?
The next encounter is scheduled for May 24, 2026, at the Santiago Bernabéu in Madrid for the final round of La Liga.
Why is it called El Viejo Clásico?
It is called the “Old Classic” because, for much of the 20th century, it was the most frequent and historic matchup in Spanish football, predating the modern dominance of the Madrid-Barcelona rivalry.
How many times has Athletic Club beaten Real Madrid?
As of early 2026, Athletic Club has recorded 77 competitive wins against Real Madrid across all competitions since their first meeting in 1903.
Can I buy tickets on the day of the match?
It is highly unlikely for this specific fixture. Most matches between these two clubs sell out weeks in advance; online pre-booking is essential.
Who is the all-time top scorer in this fixture?
The legendary Telmo Zarra of Athletic Club holds the record with 24 goals, though Cristiano Ronaldo scored 17 during his tenure at Real Madrid.
Is the Athletic Club relegated often?
No. Athletic Club is one of the “untouchables” of Spanish football, having never been relegated from the First Division since the league’s inception in 1929.
Where can I watch the match on TV in the USA?
In the United States, La Liga matches are broadcast exclusively on ESPN+ and occasionally on ESPN Deportes.
What was the score of the last match?
The last match played on December 3, 2025, ended in a 3-0 victory for Real Madrid at San Mamés.
Are there VIP tickets available for the 2026 game?
Yes, VIP tickets for the May 2026 game at the Bernabéu start at approximately €325 and are available via the official Real Madrid hospitality portal.
How do I get to the Bernabéu from Madrid city center?
The most efficient way is taking Metro Line 10 (Dark Blue) directly to the “Santiago Bernabéu” station, which is right next to the stadium.
What is the “Cantera” policy?
It is Athletic Club’s recruitment policy where they only field players born in the Basque Country or who have been trained at a Basque club academy.
Final Thoughts
The rivalry between Real Madrid and Athletic Club stands as a testament to the enduring traditions of Spanish football. As of January 2026, this historic fixture continues to be a highlight of the La Liga calendar, representing a clash between Madrid’s global scouting dominance and Bilbao’s localized Cantera philosophy. The most recent encounter on December 3, 2025, underscored Real Madrid’s current tactical superiority under Álvaro Arbeloa, as a Kylian Mbappé brace and a header from Eduardo Camavinga secured a convincing 3-0 victory at San Mamés.
Looking ahead, all eyes are on the season finale at the Santiago Bernabéu on May 24, 2026. This match is set to be a defining moment of the 2025/26 campaign, potentially serving as the decider for Real Madrid’s title aspirations in their tight race with Barcelona. For Athletic Club, it represents an opportunity to reclaim their “giant-killer” status and secure a crucial European spot. Regardless of the league standings, El Viejo Clásico remains a mandatory watch for fans seeking the purest expression of Spanish footballing heritage.
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