Rafael Louzán: “Balearic football begins today to write the next 100 years of its history”

Following Friday’s meeting of RFEF regional federation presidents, the gala held this Saturday in Mallorca commemorated the first 100 years of the Football Federation of the Balearic Islands, paying tribute to all the individuals, clubs, and institutions that have contributed to the growth of football in the autonomous community.

Addressing all those present, Rafael Louzán expressed his gratitude for “the legacy of hard work and commitment from so many people, including some who are no longer with us, who brought us to this point and made it possible for us to experience the most important moment in our history.”

“There is still a long road ahead, not without obstacles,” the RFEF president continued, “but through this magnificent gala we celebrate and honour the daily dedication of players, coaches, referees, directors, and supporters, who are the soul of this sport and who, from today onward, begin writing the next hundred years in the history of Balearic football.”

Louzán also gave special thanks to Balearic president Margalida Prohens, who highlighted in her opening speech the importance of football’s values in promoting social cohesion and “shared feelings that help make our community stronger every day.” She also joined in wishing good luck to Illes Balears Palma Futsal ahead of Sunday’s UEFA Futsal Champions League final.

The gala was opened by FFIB president Jordi Horrach, who paid tribute to several key figures, including his two predecessors, Miquel Bestard and Josep Sansó. In his speech, Horrach stated: “Our history belongs to all of us, because we were all children who once played football in the schoolyard. At its core, football is a way of loving and caring.”

Spain vs England, one of the highlights of the Centenary celebrations

The gala also served as the official presentation of one of the landmark events of the federation’s centenary year: the Women’s World Cup 2027 qualifying match between Spain and England, which will take place on June 5 in the Balearic Islands.

Son Moix Stadium will host a decisive encounter between the reigning world and European champions as both teams compete for direct qualification to the next World Cup finals. Organisers are hoping for a packed stadium and a memorable occasion in Palma.

During the event, the president of the RFEF, the president of the Balearic Islands, the president of the FFIB, and Palma mayor Jaime Martínez Llabrés all underlined the importance of a match “that will turn Son Moix into the epicentre of world football, in a land of champions.”

Tickets for the match will go on sale from Monday, May 11, with a priority sales period for RCD Mallorca season ticket holders. General public sales will open on Wednesday, May 13 at 12:00 pm (Spanish mainland time) exclusively through the RFEF ticketing platform. Prices will start at €20, with a 25% discount available on tickets purchased before May 24 for seats in the end stands and East Stand sections.