Athletic Bilbao invites Palestinian refugees onto pitch in tribute for Gaza

La Liga team Athletic Club Bilbao honored Palestine during a pre-match ceremony at San Mamés Stadium.

Before their home fixture against RCD Mallorca on Saturday, the Basque football club welcomed a group of Palestinian refugees residing in the Basque Country onto the pitch, where they were met with a resounding standing ovation from the entire crowd.

The event, announced by the club a day earlier, featured the refugees standing at the center of the field as fans rose to their feet in applause.

Athletic Club's official statement called for an end to the genocide in Gaza, emphasizing their commitment to humanitarian causes and highlighting the shared history of resilience between the Basque people and Palestinians.

"We stand with Palestine from today until the very last day," read a banner displayed by supporters in a previous match, echoing sentiments that have long resonated within the Basque community.

Club president Jon Uriarte addressed the initiative, stating that the tribute aimed to raise awareness about the plight of Palestinian refugees and foster empathy through the universal language of football.

The refugees, many of whom have found sanctuary in the Basque region, were invited as guests of honor, symbolizing the club's dedication to social justice.

This gesture is not isolated in Basque football culture. Athletic Bilbao fans have a history of vocal support for Palestine, including waving flags and chanting "Palestina Aurrera" (Forward, Palestine) during previous games.

Similar displays have occurred at other Basque venues, such as Anoeta Stadium with Real Sociedad, where ovations for Palestine have drawn widespread attention.

The Basque people's own experiences with conflict and autonomy struggles often draw parallels to the Palestinian cause, fueling grassroots activism in the region.