The Spanish League kicks off today: Barcelona defends its title, while Real Madrid and Atletico await the championship

The 2026-2027 La Liga season kicks off today, Saturday, amid anticipation of a fierce title race between defending champions Barcelona, runners-up Real Madrid, and Atlético Madrid, who are aiming to return to the podium. This follows an exceptional summer that saw Spain crowned World Cup 2026 champions.

La Liga features 20 teams, each playing 38 matches, for a total of 380 games throughout the season, with the final round concluding on May 30 next year. Alavés and Getafe begin the first round, while Sevilla face Rayo Vallecano. Atlético Madrid start their campaign against Málaga on Wednesday, Real Madrid begin their journey against Real Sociedad on August 26, and Barcelona host Athletic Bilbao the following day.

Spanish football fans eagerly await the two “Clásico” clashes between Barcelona and Real Madrid. The first meeting will take place in the 10th round at Spotify Camp Nou on October 25 next year, with the return fixture scheduled for the 35th round at Santiago Bernabéu on May 9. The Madrid derby between Atlético and Real Madrid also holds significant importance, alongside other key matches such as Barcelona versus Atlético Madrid and several prominent local derbies.

Barcelona enter the season defending their title under coach Hansi Flick, while Real Madrid aim to reclaim the championship under the guidance of their returning Portuguese manager, José Mourinho. Atlético Madrid, led by Diego Simeone, hope to compete strongly for the top spot. Barcelona won the 2025-2026 title with 94 points, finishing ahead of Real Madrid, with Villarreal third and Atlético Madrid fourth.