Los Leones

Los Leones tells the incredible story of the unique Basque club. Athletic’s rich history and Basque-only philosophy causes intrigue across the footballing world. Exclusive interviews with former legends and prominent journalists provide the historical and political context of what makes Athletic so special.

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Los Leones: The Unique Story of Athletic Club Bilbao is the first English language book that tells the incredible story of the unique Basque club.


Founded in 1898 by British migrant workers and Basque students, Athletic Club grew to become the most successful team in Spain. Along with Real Madrid and Barcelona, Los Leones have never been relegated, despite their self-imposed Basque-only transfer policy, a philosophy that causes intrigue across the footballing world.


In an age of globalisation and astronomical transfer fees, Athletic stand apart. The complicated politics of the Basque Country and its strained relationship with Spain fuel the fierce sense of identity, passion and pride that Bilbaínos and Basques possess. The San Mamés stadium, or La Catedral, outshines even the Guggenheim Museum as the most important landmark in this one-club city.


Exclusive interviews with former legends, prominent journalists and Athleticzales, provide the historical, political and social context of what makes Athletic so special.