Spain is a sports-loving nation with passion to match. Whether it’s a soccer match in Madrid, a tennis game in Barcelona, or a cycling event in the countryside, sports in Spain are not just a pastime—they’re a lifestyle.
In this guide, we will be ranking the top 10 most popular sports in Spain as well as sharing some fun stories and information, and if you are thinking of playing one of them, we might get you started!
Whether you’re a tourist, an expat, or just curious, this article will give you a full view of Spain’s sporty spirit.
1. Football (Soccer)
No great shakes here — football is not most popular sports in Spain. Also, it is the most popular sport in the world. From children kicking balls in city parks to fans cheering in world-renowned stadiums, football is at the core of Spanish sports culture.
Real Madrid and FC Barcelona, Spain’s biggest clubs, have millions of followers worldwide. Their rivalry is known as El Clásico, and it is among the most-watched sporting events in the world.
A local grandpa once told his grandson, “In this house, football is not just a game; it’s a tradition!”
The national team, known as La Roja, has won the FIFA World Cup in 2010 and UEFA Euro titles in 2008 and 2012.
✅ Want to join? Most cities have local football clubs or leagues for all ages. Just search “football clubs near me in Spain” and get started!
2. Basketball
Basketball is the second most followed sport in Spain. The nation boasts a national team with a strong history and several players in the N.B.A. Former NBA star Pau Gasol is widely regarded as one of the greatest Spanish players of all time, winning two NBA championships and multiple international badges of honor.
In Spain, the Liga ACB also has teams such as Real Madrid Baloncesto and FC Barcelona Bàsquet.
“I became a basketball fan after watching Spain beat the USA in the FIBA World Cup,” a young fan said proudly.
✅ Get involved: Many community centers have courts, and joining a club is as simple as walking into the nearest gym and asking.
3. Tennis
Tennis has become super popular in Spain, thanks to legends like Rafael Nadal. Nicknamed the “King of Clay,” Nadal has won 22 Grand Slam titles and inspired thousands of Spanish kids to pick up a racket.
Spain also hosts major tennis events like the Madrid Open and Barcelona Open.
“I watched Nadal play once and knew I wanted to play tennis forever,” said a 10-year-old from Valencia.
✅ Try it yourself: Look up Barcelona Tennis or local tennis clubs to find games or lessons.
4. Cycling
Cycling is a dream sports in Spain, and cycling is the 3rd Hardest Sports in the World Thanks to its hills, coastlines, and smooth roads, it’s ideal for serious riders as well as casual bikers.
The country is home to one of the largest cycling races in the world — the Vuelta a España, a three-week tour through some of Spain’s most scenic landscapes.
Legends like Miguel Indurain, a five-time Tour de France winner, made cycling famous in Spain.
✅ Join the ride: Look for local cycling groups or bike rental shops to begin your two-wheeled adventure.
5. Padel
Padel is one of the most popular sports in Spain. It’s like tennis but on a smaller court with walls, and it’s super fun!
People of all ages enjoy Padel because it’s easy to learn and highly social.
“My coworkers and I play padel after work. It’s our way to relax and have fun,” says Marta from Madrid.
You’ll find Padel courts in almost every Spanish city, especially in places like Malaga, Seville, and Valencia.
✅ Want to try? Check out a Padel guide to find nearby courts and lessons.
6. Handball
In schools and sports centers across Spain, handball is huge. One of Europe’s strongest teams, the Spanish national team has already won World and European Championships.
The sport is fast and exciting, combining elements of basketball and football.
✅ Want to join? Many schools and local clubs have beginner handball sessions for kids and teens.
7. Motorsports
Motorsports in Spain: If you enjoy speed, well, in motorsport you will love! So do Spanish drivers Fernando Alonso and Carlos Sainz Jr. in Formula 1, and the best MotoGP rider of the past decade, Marc Márquez.
Spain also hosts races like the Spanish Grand Prix in Barcelona.
✅ Try it: Start with go-karting or attend a local race. Visit Formula 1 Spain for events.
8. Golf
Spain can boast of some of the best golf courses in Europe, especially in Costa del Sol, and Alicante. The Masters Tournament winner Sergio García made golf popular in Spain.
“Golfing in Spain feels like playing in a painting,” said a tourist from Canada.
✅ Start now: Book a lesson at La Cala Golf or a nearby course.
9. Rugby
Rugby had comparatively fewer fans but is growing rapidly in popularity. The Madrid Lions Rugby Club, for example, welcomes players of all ages and skill levels. Respect, teamwork, fitness—rugby is everything.
✅ Interested? Contact Madrid Lions or look for clubs in cities like Seville or Barcelona.
10. Cricket
Cricket may not be native to Spain, but thanks to expats, it’s thriving. The Madrid Cricket Club has been active since 1975, and cities like Barcelona and Valencia now host regular matches.
“We moved from London and found a cricket family here in Madrid,” says club member Rob.
✅ Want to play? Reach out to Madrid Cricket Club or Barcelona International Cricket Club.
* How to Get Started in Sports (Step-by-Step)
- Pick a sport that excites you.
- Search for a local club or community online.
- Email or call to ask about joining.
- Visit a training session.
- Join, play, and have fun!
Where to Watch Sports in Spain
Don’t want to play but love to watch? Use DAZN to stream football, tennis, motorsports, and more. It’s a one-stop streaming platform for all sports fans.
Most Spanish bars also show live games — just walk in, grab a drink, and enjoy the game with locals!
FAQ’s
Q1: What are the top 10 most popular sports in Spain of all time?
The top 10 most popular sports in Spain include football, basketball, cycling, tennis, padel, handball, rugby, Cricket, Motorsports, and Golf.
Q2: What are some traditional sports in Spain?
Some traditional sports in Spain include bullfighting, jai alai, and flamenco. These sports showcase Spain’s rich cultural heritage and history.
Q3: What are the top 3 sports in Spain?
The top 3 sports in Spain are football, basketball, and cycling, with football leading as the most popular sport across the country.
Q4: Is bullfighting the national sport of Spain?
While bullfighting is a traditional and cultural symbol of Spain, it is not the national sport. Football holds that title, being the most popular sport in the country.
Q5: What is the national sport of Spain?
Football is considered the national sport of Spain, with millions of fans and world-class teams like Real Madrid and FC Barcelona dominating the sport.
Q6: What are some popular celebrations in Spain?
Spain is known for vibrant celebrations like La Tomatina, Running of the Bulls in Pamplona, and Feria de Abril in Seville, where traditional Spanish sports and cultural events take center stage.
* Final Thoughts
Spanish sport is remarkable, from football to cricket, cycling to padel. No matter your age or experience, there’s a sport for you to try. Like joining a club is a wonderful way to stay fit, make friends, have some fun while living in Spain.
So what are you waiting for?
Put on your shoes, pick your sport, and become part of Spain’s exciting sports culture today!
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