The derby is one of the most important dates on the calendar for Aitor Salinas-Armendariz, another Athletic supporter.

“Having so many away fans in the stands who are often friends and relatives is something unusual in the rest of La Liga,” he explains.

“It’s totally normal to see away fans in the seats in the home stands. They’ll probably have been given the ticket by a home fan’s relative.”

Both sets of supporters see themselves as part of the same Basque community. This shared identity shapes the atmosphere surrounding the derby.

“There is a strong sense of belonging,” Salinas-Armendariz explains. “We feel part of the same community, with common claims and struggles that go beyond what divides us.”

That sense of unity is visible everywhere on match day. Fans sharing the same bars, enjoying the pre-match build-up, and watching the match together.

It’s “a colourful and festive derby” Edu, a Real Sociedad supporter explains.

“Although Athletic has more titles, always drawing on the past, we treat each other as equals,” he says. “In the same group of friends, there are often both Real and Athletic fans. It’s a rivalry between brothers.

“We tease each other, banter a lot, and end up hugging.”

The rivalry lasts only as long as the match itself, says Athletic Club fan Javier.

“From the referee’s opening whistle to the final one. After that, there is no confrontation, but rather a sense of brotherhood.”