From the early hours of the day, the city of Bilbao prepares to euphorically welcome the return of a historical icon: the Athletic barge. This Thursday, the red and white team will celebrate its recent victory in the Copa del Rey with a journey through the waters of the estuary, in an event that will mobilize more than a million people and will require a meticulous "macro device" for security and mobility.
The barge's journey is scheduled to begin at 4:30 p.m. from the Real Club Marítimo del Abra-Real Sporting Club in Las Arenas. From there, the boat will navigate the estuary, passing through the municipalities of Getxo, Portugalete, Leioa, Sestao, Erandio, Barakaldo and until reaching Bilbao.
Throughout the journey, various points of interest have been scheduled, with strategic stops at emblematic places such as the Bilbao City Hall and the Bizkaia Provincial Council. The barge is expected to conclude its journey around 6:30 p.m., at which time the champions will be received at the town hall before embarking on a bus tour to the Provincial Council.
Of course, they will not be alone. The Athletic team that won the Copa del Rey in 1984 will accompany the barge on its journey through the estuary, reliving historical moments and paying tribute to past generations of the club's fans. The participation of heroes from the past adds a touch of nostalgia and emotion to the celebration, strengthening the bond between the team and its loyal fans.
The Deputy Minister of Security of the Basque Government, Rodrigo Gartzia, announced the participation of around 1,200 people in the organization of the event, which involves various institutions and security forces. Ertzaintza agents, local police, medical emergency personnel and State security forces will work together to guarantee a safe and orderly development of the festivities. "People's safety is more important than the show itself," stressed the vice-counselor.
For her part, Councilor Arregi added that the Pedro Arrupe and Zubi Zuri pedestrian bridges will be closed "to guarantee evacuation routes if necessary", those in El Arenal and City Hall will be closed exclusively to road traffic while those in Deusto, Euskalduna and La Salve will be open to people and vehicles. "This entire device is designed so that we can enjoy the day in the best conditions and hopefully next year we can repeat it, it would be a good sign," wished the councilor.
Since dawn, a wave of people has gathered on the banks of the Nervión estuary in Bilbao, eager to witness the Athletic barge parade. Young and old have strategically occupied their places along the route, anticipating an exciting show. Meanwhile, some followers, eager for a privileged view, have chosen to rent balconies and terraces along the route.
In exchange for an optimal position, these fans have paid prices ranging between 300 and 1,000 euros, thus ensuring an unforgettable experience. The festive atmosphere can be felt in every corner of the city, with the red and white colors waving and the palpitating of expectation beating in the hearts of those present. On this historic day, the athletic community comes together to celebrate their Copa del Rey triumph with overflowing passion and enthusiasm.
The iconic Athletic barge was built in 1960 at the Celaya Shipyard in Erandio, initially as a cargo ship, it has witnessed historic moments. In 1983 it was renamed 'Athletic', and crossed the estuary in legendary celebrations in that same year and 1984. After decades of service, it was rehabilitated in 2021 with an investment of 200,000 euros by the club, ensuring its use for the next two decades . At 18.5 meters long and weighing 80 tons, he is an iconic figure in the club's history.
It is expected that around a million people will follow live the passage of the Athletic delegation along the Nervión estuary and in the metropolitan area of Bilbao. The barge, weighing approximately 80 tons, will carry around 60 people on board, including footballers, technicians, managers and assistants.
With a length of 18.5 meters and additional dimensions of 8.5 meters of beam, 1.7 meters of depth and 1.14 meters of draft, the vessel is preparing for its third historic voyage crossing the estuary in celebration of a success sports, after the crossings of 1983 and 1984. To guarantee safety during the event, 26 basic life supports have been arranged, with the collaboration of Osakidetza, DYA and the Red Cross, along with 12 advanced health posts, 2 medicalized ambulances and 3 ambulances with nursing.
Athletic Club's celebration with the barge can be seen today, Thursday, April 11, starting at 4:30 p.m. on Teledeporte, as well as streaming through La Vanguardia, RTVE Play, Euskal Telebista and Athletic's website.
