How do Spanish clubs become ‘Real’ or ‘royal’?

The title "Real" translates to "Royal" in Spanish and represents a historic distinction connected directly to Spain's monarchy rather than on-pitch success. Eleven teams across Spain's top two divisions currently feature the royal designation, including Real Madrid, Real Sociedad, and Real Betis. The tradition began primarily under King Alfonso XIII, who frequently granted royal patronage and accepted honorary club presidencies in the early 20th century.

Clubs earned the honor through formal requests rather than sporting qualifications like winning titles or promotions. Real Club Deportivo de A Coruna became the first recipient in 1909, followed by others such as Madrid Football Club, which officially became Real Madrid in 1920. Modern clubs can still petition for royal recognition, as demonstrated by lower-tier Real Club Deportivo Gara in 2012.