Rafael Louzán acts as host on behalf of Spanish football ahead of the UEFA Europa League final

The city of Bilbao and the San Mamés stadium are hosting the grand final of the UEFA Europa League this Wednesday, 21 May. As such, the UEFA Executive Committee meeting is also taking place, where RFEF president Rafael Louzán will be present for the first time after being chosen by European football to become a member of the EX-Co.

On the previous day, Louzán acted as host on behalf of Spanish football during an intense day that began with a visit to the headquarters of the Basque Football Federation, where he held a working meeting with president Javier Landeta. During the meeting, both presidents discussed current matters related to the day-to-day running of Spanish football.

Later, Rafael Louzán welcomed UEFA president Aleksander Čeferin to Bilbao upon his arrival in the Basque city, ahead of the official pre-match dinner before the final between Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur at San Mamés, where they will compete for the Europa League title.

In addition, the RFEF president’s day continued with his attendance at the Bilbao Fan Festival, where themes of integration and solidarity were celebrated and saw the participation of the Spanish Refugee Team. This team is made up of individuals who train each week with RFEF coaching staff, alongside UEFA volunteers, and took part in a series of five-a-side friendly matches organised by the RFEF, UEFA, and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).

To round off the day before the celebration of European football in Bilbao, the Euskalduna Palace in the Basque city hosted the official dinner for the Europa League final. There, president Rafael Louzán highlighted the importance of such a major event, stating: “One of the birthplaces of Spanish football and San Mamés, its cathedral, with more than a century of history, has witnessed unforgettable nights. And this, without a doubt, will be one of them. A venue worthy of the greatest European events. This final is much more than just a match. It is a celebration of sporting excellence and of the values that make football a universal language: effort, respect, dedication, and perseverance. Tonight, we have the privilege of welcoming two iconic Premier League and global football clubs. We are sure that their two great fanbases will enjoy a memorable match in the spirit of sportsmanship. From the RFEF, we welcome both delegations and wish them all the best. May they live this final with intensity and pride, and give us a night to remember for years to come.
Thanks to UEFA, and in particular to president Čeferin, for once again placing their trust in Spain. And thanks to Bilbao, its institutions, and its people, for their effort and hospitality,” said Louzán in his speech.

On Wednesday, 21 May, and before the Europa League final between the two English clubs United and Spurs, the UEFA Executive Committee meeting will take place in Bilbao, where Rafael Louzán, elected as a member last April, will take part for the first time representing Spanish football.