LaLiga recognises clubs' on and off-field successes

This Friday saw LaLiga recognise its clubs' achievements in Europe this term at an event attended by LaLiga's president, Javier Tebas; Miguel Cardenal, president of the High Council for Sport; Carlos Espinosa de los Monteros, high commissioner for Marca España (the Spanish Brand); and Felix Plaza, a partner from the tax department of international legal and tax services firm, Garrigues, as well as representatives from within the world of Spanish football and business.

The ceremony, which took place at Garrigues' Madrid headquarters, was also attended by Enrique Cerezo, Miguel Angel Gil Marin and Clemente Villaverde, representing Atletico Madrid; Fernando Roig Negueroles, Villarreal CF's chief executive; the president of Sevilla FC, Jose Castro; and Real Madrid's head of institutional relations, Emilio Butragueño. LaLiga was also joined by representatives from organisations such as the NBA, the AFE (Association of Spanish Footballers), the Leading Brands of Spain Forum (FMRE), the Spanish Sports Press Association (AEPD) and other Liga BBVA and Liga Adelante clubs, who have also contributed to the success enjoyed by Spanish football.

As underlined by Felix Plaza, "it can't be just chance that there's always a core group of Spanish clubs who reach the latter stages of the European competitions," before adding that "the fine business management seen within the clubs makes them deserving of this great success."

The LaLiga president pointed out that "when people talk about LaLiga, the only things they mention are that it has got the best players and the best teams, but there's no reference to them having the best business leaders in the world. We've been working to reach the top in this field and now it's time to recognise our achievements." Tebas went on to remind attendees that "the clubs have been subject to exhaustive financial controls and even with this, we continue to be the most competitive and decorated league." The LaLiga chief poured praise on the work accomplished by the hierarchies in charge of the Spanish clubs, "it's thanks to them that we've made it into finals, they're a role model for everyone in the Liga BBVA and the Liga Adelante to follow."

Carlos Espinosa de los Monteros sought to congratulate the Spanish footballing family "because it's making a significant contribution to the construction of the Spanish brand, boosting its standing and reputation." The high commissioner for Marca España also noted that "during the 16 years of the 21st century, 51 European competitions have been staged and Spanish sides have won 26 of these, the country next in line is England with seven, which is a massive gap." Miguel Cardenal declared that "our country is fortunate enough to boast a football league which is a global benchmark and brand," adding that "we're grateful to all of the clubs and we offer thanks on behalf of Spanish society as a whole."

In the wake of Sevilla's recent Europa League triumph - their third in a row - club president, Jose Castro stated that "not only are we pleased for all of the Sevilla fans, but also for all Spanish nationals, we won this title for Spain and for LaLiga and we must keep on in the same vein, by continuing to work hard." Villarreal CF's chief executive, Fernando Roig Negueroles, expressed his thanks to the government on account of "the passing of the Royal Decree, which has helped us out greatly. It's important that we hold our heads up high because in Spain some very good work is done."

In his address, Emilio Butragueño referred to the UEFA Champions League final set to be contested between Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid on 28 May. "In Lisbon the two sets of supporters set a fine example with their conduct, and the same thing will happen in Milan," adding that "Real Madrid is a great ambassador for Spain and Madrid, and Atletico - thanks to the way the club has been managed - have moved onto the biggest stage. The 28 May is set to be a party in which we'll celebrate football, Spain and Madrid."

Miguel Angel Gil Marin, chief executive of Atletico Madrid, gave thanks to LaLiga on account of "the management activities they're carrying out as an organisation. It's only fair to recognise the work being accomplished by Miguel Cardenal and Javier Tebas, because without their efforts everything would become more difficult in our industry." Gil Marin closed with the following words, "thanks to LaLiga's economic controls and their support we're able to continue showcasing our efficiency."