Why Is There a Barcelona Team in Ecuador?

By Alice Nichols

Football is a sport that has always had a global appeal. It’s no secret that football clubs have avid fans all over the world, and it’s not unusual for clubs to have supporters’ clubs in different countries.

However, it is quite surprising to hear about a football club in one country having a team in another country. That’s exactly what happened with Barcelona Sporting Club.

What is Barcelona Sporting Club?

Barcelona Sporting Club is an Ecuadorian football club based in Guayaquil, Ecuador. The club was founded on May 1, 1925, and has since become one of the most successful football clubs in Ecuador. Barcelona SC has won the Ecuadorian Serie A title 15 times, making them the most successful team in the league’s history.

Why is there a Barcelona team in Ecuador?

The story of how Barcelona SC came to be associated with FC Barcelona goes back to 1930 when Guillermo Gómez Plata, one of the founders of Barcelona SC, visited Spain and witnessed FC Barcelona play at their home stadium. He was so impressed by their style of play and their dedication to their fans that he decided to name his club after them.

Over time, this association has grown stronger, and FC Barcelona has recognized the efforts of their supporters’ club in Ecuador. The FC Barcelona Supporters Club of Guayaquil was officially recognized by FC Barcelona on August 29th, 1998.

What is the relationship between FC Barcelona and Barcelona SC?

The relationship between FC Barcelona and Barcelona SC is more than just symbolic; it’s practical too. The two clubs have formed a partnership that allows for player exchanges as well as coaching clinics for young players in Ecuador.

In recent years, players like Jefferson Montero and Fidel Martinez have made the move from Ecuador to Spain to play for FC Barcelona’s B team or other Spanish clubs affiliated with FC Barcelona.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the story of Barcelona SC and their association with FC Barcelona is a unique one in the world of football. It’s a testament to the global appeal of the sport and the passion that fans have for their clubs. While it may seem unusual to have a football club in one country associated with a club in another country, it’s clear that this partnership has been beneficial for both clubs and their supporters.