Real Madrid Club de Fútbol, commonly referred to as Real Madrid, is one of the most iconic and successful football clubs in the world. Based in Madrid, Spain, the club has a rich history filled with domestic and international achievements, legendary players, and a global fanbase.

Foundation and Early Years (1902–1920s)

• Founded: March 6, 1902, as Madrid Football Club.
• Royal Title: In 1920, King Alfonso XIII granted the club the title "Real" (Royal), adding the crown to its emblem.
• First Achievements: Real Madrid won its first Copa del Rey in 1905, marking the start of its success in Spanish football.

The Santiago Bernabéu Era (1943–1978)

Santiago Bernabéu, a former player and visionary president (1943–1978), transformed Real Madrid into a global powerhouse.

1. Stadium and Facilities:
   • The Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, inaugurated in 1947, became the club's iconic home.
   • Bernabéu modernized the club's structure and built a youth academy.
2. European Dominance:
   • Real Madrid won the inaugural European Cup (now UEFA Champions League) in 1956.
   • The club secured five consecutive European Cups from 1956 to 1960, a record still unmatched.
   • Legendary players like Alfredo Di Stéfano, Ferenc Puskás, and Paco Gento were instrumental.

Golden Periods and Domestic Success (1980s–1990s)

1. La Quinta del Buitre:
   • In the 1980s, a generation of homegrown talent, including Emilio Butragueño, led Real Madrid to dominate La Liga, winning five consecutive titles (1986–1990).
   • The team also won two UEFA Cups (1985, 1986).
2. Revival in the 1990s:
   • Real Madrid won their seventh European Cup in 1998 under manager Jupp Heynckes.
   • The team claimed another Champions League title in 2000, marking the start of a new era.

The Galácticos Era (2000s)

1. Florentino Pérez's Vision:
   • In 2000, Florentino Pérez became president and introduced the "Galácticos" policy, signing global superstars like Zinedine Zidane, Luís Figo, Ronaldo, and David Beckham.
   • Real Madrid combined commercial success with sporting glory, winning the 2002 Champions League with Zidane's iconic volley in the final.
2. Challenges:
   • Despite high-profile signings, the club faced criticism for prioritizing star players over team balance, leading to mixed results in the mid-2000s.

Modern Era and Recent Dominance (2010s–Present)

1. Cristiano Ronaldo and Unprecedented Success:
   • Signed in 2009, Cristiano Ronaldo became the club's all-time leading scorer with 450 goals.
   • Under coaches like Zinedine Zidane and Carlo Ancelotti, Real Madrid won four Champions League titles in five years (2014, 2016, 2017, 2018).
   • The club achieved a record 14th Champions League title in 2022.
2. Global Stardom:
   • Real Madrid has maintained its status as a financial and sporting giant, attracting players like Luka Modrić, Karim Benzema, and Vinícius Jr.
   • Investments in the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium modernization have further boosted the club's global appeal.

Achievements and Records

• La Liga Titles: 35 (as of 2025)
• Copa del Rey Titles: 20
• UEFA Champions League Titles: 14
• Club World Cups: 5

Cultural Impact

• Real Madrid has become a symbol of excellence and ambition, with a global fanbase exceeding hundreds of millions.
• Rivalries, especially with FC Barcelona (El Clásico) and Atlético Madrid, are among the most watched in football.

From its humble beginnings to its current status as a global football empire, Real Madrid's history is a testament to its enduring legacy in the sport.