Founded on July 23, 1930, Girona Futbol Club was established in the historic Catalan city of Girona, Spain. The football club's formation was largely thanks to the efforts of Ramon Soriguera i Roig, a local teacher who led a group of football enthusiasts passionate about creating a new team in their beloved city (source).

The origins of Girona FC can be traced back to several smaller clubs within the region that merged during the early years. These included Unió Esportiva Gironina and others like Valldan Club de Fútbol. The establishment of this new entity aimed to solidify football’s presence within the province and provide locals with a representative team they could take pride in.

Girona's first decades were marked by modest success as they oscillated between lower divisions in Spanish football. They experienced some notable achievements during this time; one such instance was their Copa del Rey run in 1945-46 when they reached the semifinals before losing against future champions RCD Espanyol (source).

In these initial years, standout players like Salvador Sunyer Vidal showcased their talents for Girona FC and earned regional recognition.

Although historically not considered among Spain's elite teams, Girona has enjoyed its fair share of memorable moments over the years:

Promotion to La Liga

Arguably their most significant achievement came on June 4th, 2017 when after an eighty-seven-year history filled with ups and downs, promotion into La Liga – Spain’s top flight – finally materialized (source). In their debut La Liga season (2017-18), Girona enjoyed a remarkable campaign, finishing 10th in the league and earning widespread praise for their performances under manager Pablo Machín.

Notable Matches

Girona made headlines during the 2017-18 season with a stunning 2-1 victory over reigning Spanish champions Real Madrid at Estadi Montilivi, showcasing their potential as newcomers to the top flight (source).

Historically, Girona FC's primary rivals have been Catalonia’s other prominent clubs like FC Barcelona B, CE Sabadell and Gimnàstic de Tarragona. However, following their promotion to La Liga in 2017 – despite having now returned to Segunda División – they established a competitive rivalry with Barcelona and Espanyol due to geographical proximity within Catalunya.

Derby matches between Girona and these local rivals are typically charged encounters that bring out passionate displays from both sets of supporters. These regional contests hold significant importance for club identity and fan pride, often resulting in tense atmospheres on matchdays.

The Estadi Municipal de Montilivi has been home to Girona FC since its inauguration on August 14th, 1970 (source). Located near Gavarres mountains' slopes, this stadium boasts an intimate atmosphere with a current capacity of around 11,200 spectators.

Over time there have also been several renovations including the construction of new stands, VIP areas, and modernized press facilities. The intimate nature of Montilivi allows for fans to generate a raucous environment that often fuels Girona's players during home matches.

Many memorable games have taken place at this historic venue – such as the previously mentioned 2-1 victory over Real Madrid in 2017 – further cementing its importance in club folklore.

Fans Demographics

Girona FC boasts a passionate fan base spread across the city and surrounding regions. Supporters are typically proud Catalans who embrace their team as a symbol of regional pride within Spanish football. A diverse demographic follows Girona FC with men, women, and children all coming together to support their local side passionately.

Notable Fan Groups

One prominent group is "PBB Girona" (Penya Barcelonista de Blanes) which organizes trips to away games, hosts events for fellow supporters, and fervently backs their beloved team (source). Additionally, numerous smaller fan groups exist united under their shared allegiance to Girona FC.

Traditions & Rituals

Fan culture at Girona FC has cultivated several unique traditions over time. One enduring custom is the use of club colors (red-and-white) on matchdays via flags or attire; this vibrant display reinforces both community spirit and collective identity among supporters. In addition, singing chants like "Força Girona!" create an electric atmosphere during home games – propelling players onwards towards victory.

1. June 4th, 2017: Promotion into La Liga for the first time ever.
2. October 29th, 2017: Historic win against Real Madrid at Estadi Montilivi.
3. Copa del Rey run in 1945-46: Reached the semifinals before losing against RCD Espanyol.
4. August 14th, 1970: Inauguration of Estadi Municipal de Montilivi as Girona's home ground.
5. 2017-18 season: Securing a respectable 10th place finish in their debut La Liga campaign under manager Pablo Machín.
6. July 23rd, 1930: Official founding of Girona Futbol Club by Ramon Soriguera i Roig and other passionate locals.
7. Successful consolidation in Segunda División during the early years following mergers with smaller clubs from the region – providing stability for future growth.
8. The emergence of standout players such as Salvador Sunyer Vidal who represented Girona FC on regional stages with distinction.
9. Establishing regional rivalries within Catalunya – particularly after promotion to La Liga – which added layers of complexity to club identity and fan culture.
10. The pride that comes from being one of only four Catalan teams (alongside Barcelona, Espanyol, and CE Sabadell) to have played in Spain’s top-flight division since its inception (source).