United call for unity ahead of Atlético–Real Sociedad final

🏆 𝗨𝗻𝗶𝗱𝗼𝘀 𝗽𝗼𝗿 𝗲𝗹 𝗳𝘂́𝘁𝗯𝗼𝗹: @Atleti y @RealSociedad comparten la cena oficial previa al partido en el que se jugarán la #CopaDelReyMapfre.

🗣 Rafael Louzán: "El espíritu de esta final es el de la cordialidad".

🔗 https://t.co/Ndum8edtXQ#LaCopaMola
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— RFEF (@rfef) April 18, 2026

Set against the stunning backdrop of Real Alcázar of Seville, the evening blended football, art, flamenco, and sportsmanship. Guests witnessed a live painting by artist Carlota Pérez de Castro as part of her La Huella del Flamencoproject before the traditional exchange of gifts.

With less than 24 hours before kick-off at La Cartuja Stadium, Louzán presented a replica of the trophy, decorated in the finalists’ colors, to club presidents Enrique Cerezo and Jokin Aperribay.

Aperribay gifted a sculpture titled Futbola eta adiskidetasuna (“Football and friendship”), symbolizing unity between two clubs set to compete for the trophy. Cerezo responded by recalling the 1987 final—the only previous meeting between the sides—and highlighted the friendship between both clubs despite the rivalry.

The federation also recognized the work of security forces, local authorities, and regional football institutions ahead of the event.

Now, 123 years after its inception, the Copa del Rey—Spain’s most historic competition—gears up for a final that promises a full house and a memorable night in Seville, officiated by Javier Alberola Rojas