• Palestinian football federation emphasizes solidarity with people under difficult circumstances

The Palestinian national football team arrived in Bilbao, Spain, on Tuesday, in an event that went beyond sports to become a global demonstration of support and solidarity.

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The Palestinian team is preparing to face the Basque team (Euskadi) in a friendly match next Saturday, November 15, at the historic San Mamés Stadium.

A popular achievement and expression of unity

Support for the match emerged early and on a record-breaking scale; local media reported that around 50,000 tickets were sold for the friendly, making it the most-watched match for the Basque team ever.

This massive turnout reflects the Basque public’s strong desire to express absolute solidarity with the Palestinian cause, in an unprecedented sports and humanitarian display.

The Basque Txapela symbolizes cultural solidarity

The Palestinian team’s arrival at Bilbao airport was accompanied by a symbolic gesture: team members wore the traditional Basque hat, known as the “Txapela.”

This cultural gesture was widely praised and symbolized deep unity and appreciation between the two peoples, highlighting ties that go beyond the football field.

The match dedicated to Gaza victims

The core significance of the match, organized by the Basque and Palestinian football federations, lies in its dedication as a “tribute to the victims of the Gaza genocide.”

The Palestinian Football Federation confirmed that the main purpose of the event is to show solidarity with the Palestinian people amid difficult circumstances.

The Basque region, particularly Athletic Bilbao, whose stadium hosts the match, has a long history of supporting the Palestinian cause, with fans previously holding banners reading “Stop the genocide.”

Sporting and political context

Although the match is friendly and not officially recognized by FIFA for the Basque team, it carries sporting significance for the Palestinians, who aim to strengthen their readiness for upcoming competitions.

The event also holds political importance in Spain, one of the first European countries to publicly support the Palestinian cause, and millions worldwide are expected to follow this match that combines sporting spirit with a powerful message of human solidarity.