HISTORY AND CULÉ PRIDE
125th anniversary gala of FC Barcelona: summary of the event held at the Gran Teatre del Liceu
FC Barcelona has commemorated 125 years of passion, sport, and legacy in an unforgettable gala full of legends
The event was held at the Gran Teatre del Liceu with 2,000 guests, including former players, former coaches, former directors, the current board, technical staff, and the current squad. However, it did not include Leo Messi, the notable absence. A day filled with symbolism and great pride.
The gala began with a portrayal of Joan Gamper, the club's founder, played by actor Pep Anton Muñoz, who recalled the values and dreams that gave rise to Barça. Subsequently, Joan Laporta, the current president, delivered an emotional speech reviewing the club's most iconic moments, from the heroic years to the golden era with Johan Cruyff, Ronaldinho, Messi, and the triumphs of the women’s team. Laporta highlighted that Barça is more than a club, a social and cultural benchmark that remains an emotional axis for its followers: "Joan Gamper, thank you for driving the best club in the world, which today celebrates 125 years. Barça makes dreams come true. We are building a stadium for over 100,000 people, and in 2026 it will be the best stadium on the five continents, as all our stadiums have been."
During the event, videos showcasing the team’s best goals in history were shown, including Koeman's legendary shot in the Champions League final, Messi's goal against Getafe, and unforgettable moments from Barça’s women’s team. Iconic figures like Alexia Putellas also took the stage to talk about recent achievements, such as three Champions League titles in four years, while the team’s players sent a message of unity and gratitude to the fans: "Knowing that we are seen as a sports project, not just as a women’s project, moves us deeply. Not being judged by gender makes us very proud."
The gala also paid tribute to legends from the club’s different sections, such as Juan Carlos Navarro, Gaby Cairo, and Jordi Torras, who shared memories of their most memorable moments wearing the blaugrana jersey. Congratulations from international figures like Pep Guardiola and heartfelt messages from greats such as Messi, Ronaldinho, Iniesta, Rivaldo, and Luis Enrique were sent via videos from different parts of the world.
- Juan Carlos Navarro: "I have experienced many magical nights at the Palau. I would choose the two EuroLeague titles we won as the best moments: the 2003 one at home and the second in Paris. They were very important for the section."
- Gaby Cairo: "For someone from abroad, for someone from Argentina, it’s an honor to be here. My best memory is when we won all four leagues. I hope to give back everything that Barça has given to me."
- Jordi Torras: "There were many people who paved the way. We have done very well, putting the futsal section at the top as the best team in the world. The section has made history."
L'escut al pit
Among the highlights was the presentation of the official anniversary anthem, “L’escut al pit”, chosen for its popularity among fans. The club also unveiled its new mascot, Cat, who appeared on stage alongside young talents like Gavi and Lamine Yamal. Music played a central role, with Joan Dausà performing the iconic Cant del Barça and a video of Pep Guardiola doing a playback of the song Aniversari.
The gala concluded with the traditional birthday song, led by Joan Laporta and joined by players, captains, and coaches from all sections of the club, who blew out the candles on the commemorative cake. It was a celebration that united past, present, and future, reaffirming FC Barcelona as a symbol of sporting and cultural pride for millions around the world.
With the motto Visca el Barça i Visca Catalunya, the club celebrated not only its 125 years of history but also the legacy and values that have made it a global institution, continuing to dream and make its followers’ dreams come true.