Welcome to Santander, a city where the salt-laced winds off the Bay of Biscay carry the sound of the sea, and where green and white are the colors of devotion. This is more than a city; this is Cantabria, Spain, the historic home of Real Racing Club de Santander, S.A.D., and the magnificent cathedral of football known as the Campos de Sport de El Sardinero.
Step into the story of the Verdiblancos (Green and Whites) for a true footballing pilgrimage.
Racing Santander: The Green and White Legacy
Club History & Identity
Your journey begins back in 1913, when the club, initially named Santander Racing Club, played its first match on February 23rd. The official foundation followed on June 14th. Racing quickly established itself as a cornerstone of Spanish football, recognized as one of the ten founding clubs of La Liga in 1928.
The fans call themselves Racinguistas or Montañeses (Mountaineers), names that speak to the resilience of this club nestled in northern Spain.
Notable Eras and Milestones:
The Golden Start: Racing achieved its highest league finish ever during the 1930–31 season, finishing as La Liga runner-up, tied on points with champions Athletic Bilbao. Pioneers of Spain: Racing de Santander made history as the first Spanish team to wear a sponsor’s name on its shirt (Teka) in 1981. European Dreams: The 2007–08 season remains a modern highlight, with Racing finishing sixth in La Liga and qualifying for the UEFA Cup for the first time. Legends of El Sardinero: Revered names include Pedro Munitis, José Emilio Amavisca, Santillana, and perhaps most beloved, Nando Yosu, “the miracle man” who saved Racing from relegation multiple times. Manager and ex-player Quique Setién is also remembered fondly for his tactical influence and that unforgettable 5-0 win against Barcelona in 1996.
Rivalries & Duels:
While Racing is Cantabria’s only fully professional side, the most heated rivalry is the Duel of the North with Athletic Bilbao. There’s also a long-standing competitive edge against Real Oviedo.
The Sanctuary of El Sardinero
Stadium Overview & Architecture
The modern Campos de Sport de El Sardinero opened on August 20, 1988, replacing the old ground just 150 meters away.
Capacity & Dimensions: Around 22,222 seats, with a 105 x 68 m pitch. Design: Architect Juan José Arenas designed a rectangular football-specific stadium with no obstructive columns, offering superb sightlines from every seat. Colors & Layout: Lower-tier preferencias seats are white, upper tribuna seats are blue, echoing local identity. Upgrades: In 2022, Racing announced a €4.5 million modernization, including a striking vertical garden façade.
Atmosphere and Best Seats
On matchdays, El Sardinero comes alive with an atmosphere that is regularly called magical and unique.
The Tribuna Principal (main grandstand) is the best spot to feel the passion. Beware the Bay of Biscay rains: the lower rows (preferencias) aren’t fully sheltered despite the stadium’s roof.
The Racinguista Spirit
Supporters & Matchday Culture
The Racinguistas are famed for their loyalty and passion.
La Gradona: The heartbeat of Racing support. Chants, flags, and tifos all originate here.
Chants and Songs: A signature refrain is: “Una ilusión nos persigue, la primera división” (A hope pursues us, the first division).
Living the Game: When the anthem plays and the team enters, the connection between Racing de Santander and Cantabria is undeniable.
Travel & Local Immersion
Getting to El Sardinero
Located about 2.5 km from the city center, El Sardinero is accessible by a 30-minute walk or city bus (Lines 1, 2, 3, 6, 13, 15, 20). Parking (plaza de aparcamiento) is limited, so public transport is recommended.
Santander: Beyond the Pitch
Tiempo en Santander: The Cantabrian climate is wet and unpredictable — autumn and spring are beautiful times to visit, but rain is frequent. Nearby Landmarks: Segunda Playa del Sardinero, Palacio de Deportes de Santander, and the elegant Gran Casino del Sardinero are all next to the stadium. Food & Drink: Tapas bars and restaurants in El Sardinero district offer a chance to taste Cantabria’s famous anchovies, cocido montañés, and local wines.
Matchday Essentials
Tickets: Buy online via the official website or at the taquillas (stadium windows). Popular partidos de Racing de Santander sell quickly. Prices: From €10 behind the goals to €30 in the central stands. Access: Security is tight — no pyrotechnics, large bags, or outside food/drinks.
Current Sporting Context — LaLiga Hypermotion 2025/26
League & Standings
Racing de Santander currently competes in LaLiga Hypermotion.
For fans following Racing abroad, the Diario Montañés provides trusted coverage of Racing de Santander fixtures, results, and standings.
Whether you’re exploring the Campos de Sport de El Sardinero, braving the tiempo en Santander, or singing with La Gradona, Racing offers one of Spain’s most authentic football pilgrimages.
¡Vamos Racing
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