Barcelona's

Catalan Ties

Much of Barça’s fan culture and identity is rooted in its Catalan ties in history and support for Catalan independence- read on to learn more.

Hans Gamper and the other ten founding men envisioned this club as not just a team, but a democratic organization rooted in inclusivity and social integration that supported Catalan identity. During periods of political repression, such as under Francisco Franco’s dictatorship, Barça served as a rare and vital outlet for Catalan expression. The stadium became a space where fans could speak Catalan, wave the Catalan flag, and assert their identity in defiance of government suppression. Through its history, values, and loyal supporters, FC Barcelona has become a living symbol of Catalonia’s struggle for recognition and self-determination—earning it the motto, “Més que un club” (“More than a club”).

This legacy continues today, as the club remains an emblem of civic pride and cultural identity. From symbolic stances during political referendums to celebrating Catalan National Day, FC Barcelona reflects the region’s aspirations. Its member-owned structure and global platform reinforce its commitment to democracy, inclusion, and community.

As a symbol of Catalan resistance, FC Barcelona suffered under Francisco Franco’s dictatorship, during which the use of Catalan language, flags, and expressions of regional nationalism were banned. The club was forced to change its name to Club de Fútbol Barcelona and to remove the Catalan flag from its crest. Despite this repression, the club continued to embody Catalan identity and political expression. Josep Suñol i Garriga, a former president, promoted the motto “Sport and Citizenship” to advocate for Catalan nationalism, rooting the club deeply in political activism during a time of instability. Today, FC Barcelona’s badge proudly displays the four red stripes of the Senyera, a symbol of Catalonia, and the club continues to assert its identity through political slogans and cultural pride, reinforcing its legacy as more than just a football club.

Image Credits:

"Francisco Franco" - Photo by AP, https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/dec/15/us-far-right-francisco-franco-spanish-civil-war
"Catalan Independence" - Photo by Marcoil CC-BY-4.0, https://albavolunteer.org/2016/08/francos-last-breath-on-catalan-independence/