Joan Gamper

Joan Gamper was born on November 22, 1877, in Winterthur, Switzerland. Originally named Hans Kamper, he would later become a key figure in the founding and development of FC Barcelona, one of the most successful and well-known football clubs in the world. His passion for football and sports would lead him to play an instrumental role in the introduction and spread of the game in Catalonia.

On November 29, 1899, Joan Gamper, along with a group of Swiss, English, and Catalan footballers, founded Football Club Barcelona. Gamper placed an advertisement in 'Los Deportes' magazine in October of that year, looking for players interested in forming a football team. This led to the creation of a club that would go on to become a symbol of Catalan culture and one of the most successful football clubs in the world.

Joan Gamper was instrumental in organizing the first ever match between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid, which took place on February 22, 1901. Although results of those early meetings are not well-documented, the rivalry that developed from these games would grow into one of the most famous in the football world. Gamper’s leadership helped establish FC Barcelona as a competitive force in football.

Joan Gamper was named president of FC Barcelona for the first time on December 2, 1908. During his presidency, he worked tirelessly to stabilize the finances of the club and to strengthen its foundation. His vision and dedication helped establish the values and culture that would shape the future of the club. Under his leadership, the club grew in both popularity and success.

The Pyrenees Cup, considered the first international football competition in Southern Europe, was won by FC Barcelona on May 23, 1910, with Joan Gamper playing a crucial role in its organization. The club’s victory in this tournament which featured teams from France, Spain, and Italy, represented one of its earliest significant international successes, reinforcing its burgeoning reputation across Europe.

On May 20, 1922, Les Corts, the new stadium for FC Barcelona, was inaugurated under the direction and efforts of Joan Gamper. The stadium would become a symbol of the club's growth and ambition, having a capacity of 22,000 spectators—a substantial figure for the time. Les Corts would remain the home of FC Barcelona until the mid-20th century, witnessing many of its triumphs.

Joan Gamper died on July 30, 1930, in Barcelona, Spain. He dedicated much of his life to sports and specifically to FC Barcelona, where his leadership and passion left an indelible mark on the club’s history. His untimely death at the age of 52 came after a period of personal and political turmoil. Gamper's legacy continues to be celebrated, and he is remembered as a pioneering figure in football.

The Joan Gamper Trophy, an annual friendly football competition hosted by FC Barcelona, was established in 1966 to honor the memory and legacy of the club's founder, Joan Gamper. Played at Barcelona's Camp Nou stadium, this event marks the introduction of the upcoming season and celebrates Gamper’s contributions to the sport and the club.

On November 29, 1999, FC Barcelona celebrated its centenary. Founded by Joan Gamper in 1899, the club celebrated 100 years of sporting excellence, community spirit, and cultural significance. The centenary was marked by numerous events and festivities, paying tribute to Gamper's vision and the club's achievements over the century. It was a significant milestone in honoring the club’s history.

In September 2006, a new section dedicated to Joan Gamper was inaugurated at the FC Barcelona Museum. This section highlights Gamper's life and achievements, covering not only his role in founding the club but also his impact on the sport and Catalan culture. The museum attracts thousands of visitors, allowing them to witness the history of one of the world's most celebrated football clubs.