And here it is 123: Real Madrid is celebrating a happy day!

Happy times at Real Madrid as the club marks a historic occasion. After an electrifying Champions League victory against Atlético Madrid, the Merengues are in celebration mode, as this Thursday, they commemorate their 123rd anniversary. Established on March 6, 1902, with the formation of its first board of directors, Real Madrid has grown into the most successful and recognized football institution in the world.

For over a century, Real Madrid has set the benchmark for footballing excellence. While many clubs that emerged in the early 1900s have either disappeared or faded into mediocrity, the White House has continued to reign supreme. With a solid structure, an unbreakable winning mentality, and visionary leadership, Real Madrid today stands as the most decorated football club in history. As the club proudly states in its official records, few institutions in any sport can match its achievements.

Real Madrid’s success story is defined by legendary triumphs, historic moments, and footballing icons. With a staggering 26 European trophies, including 15 Champions League titles in football and 11 in basketball, the club has dominated on multiple fronts. FIFA’s recognition of Real Madrid as the Club of the 20th Century was a testament to its unparalleled influence and success. Last season, Los Blancos extended their European supremacy by clinching five major trophies, including the highly coveted Decimoquinta at Wembley.

From the pioneering days of Santiago Bernabéu, who shaped the club’s vision, to the legendary players who etched their names into history, Real Madrid’s journey has been adorned with greatness. Icons like Alfredo Di Stéfano, Paco Gento, Ferenc Puskás, Raymond Kopa, and José Santamaría spearheaded the team’s golden era, winning five consecutive European Cups from 1956 to 1960. The sixth title followed in 1966, with legends such as Amancio and Pirri leading the charge.

More recently, the club has witnessed the exploits of modern-day legends like Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, Sergio Ramos, Iker Casillas, and Zinedine Zidane. These superstars have further cemented Real Madrid’s legacy, delivering unforgettable moments, dramatic comebacks, and glorious triumphs.

Beyond the pitch, Real Madrid’s financial muscle is unmatched. The club became the first football team to surpass €1 billion in annual revenue, a milestone that highlights its global appeal and commercial strength. With an iconic stadium that continues to evolve, the club generates significant revenue through matchdays, sponsorships, and merchandise sales. The Santiago Bernabéu, currently undergoing a state-of-the-art renovation, is set to become one of the greatest sporting venues in the world.

During the club’s latest general assembly, president Florentino Pérez outlined his ambitious vision to further elevate Real Madrid’s stature. “We are in the final phase of realizing a dream we set five years ago: transforming the Santiago Bernabéu into an architectural masterpiece that defines Madrid. This stadium will be the most iconic football arena globally. Additionally, Ciudad Real Madrid remains the finest sporting facility, continuing to expand 19 years after its inauguration,” declared the 77-year-old, who will remain at the helm until 2029.

Real Madrid’s dominance extends beyond club level. The club has consistently contributed to Spain’s national team successes, with its players being integral to La Roja’s triumphs, including their historic 2010 FIFA World Cup and back-to-back European Championships in 2008 and 2012. This influence further underscores the club’s role in shaping global football.

As Real Madrid turns 123, the club remains at the pinnacle of the game. With an insatiable hunger for trophies and a commitment to excellence, the future looks as bright as ever. From its foundation to its present-day triumphs, every chapter in Real Madrid’s story speaks of resilience, ambition, and a relentless pursuit of greatness.

This anniversary is not just a celebration of the club’s history but also a testament to its enduring legacy. Fans around the world, from Madrid to Asia and across the Americas, continue to passionately support the team, making Real Madrid not just a club but a global phenomenon.

As the celebrations continue, the team will soon shift focus back to the pitch, with a crucial La Liga match scheduled for Sunday. With the league title race heating up and the Champions League quarter-finals on the horizon, Real Madrid’s season remains full of promise.

Happy 123rd anniversary to the greatest football club in history! Here’s to many more years of dominance, glory, and unforgettable moments. ¡Hala Madrid!