The Trial
"Listen to me. To wear this white shirt is a responsibility. We do not accept average. Prove you know the history, or leave via the back door."
"Listen to me. To wear this white shirt is a responsibility. We do not accept average. Prove you know the history, or leave via the back door."
Every major Real Madrid trophy ends in the same place: The Plaza de Cibeles in central Madrid. This neo-classical fountain, depicting the goddess Cybele on a chariot pulled by lions, is the spiritual home of Madridismo celebrations.
The tradition began in the 1980s. Originally, fans of both Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid celebrated there, but over time, Atlético moved to the Neptune fountain down the street, leaving Cibeles exclusively for Los Blancos.
The image of the captain atop the fountain is the defining photo of any successful season. Raúl famously climbed the statue like a bullfighter. Sergio Ramos made it a spectacle. Marcelo brought a carnival atmosphere.
Nacho Fernández, the 2024 captain, had the honor of crowning the goddess after the 15th Champions League & La Liga double.
During the celebrations, hundreds of thousands of fans fill the streets of Paseo de la Castellana and Calle de Alcalá, creating a sea of white. It is a moment of communion between the squad and the city.