Did you know that Valencia is home to not one but two major football clubs? Of course, Valencia CF is the most well-known, but just as fascinating (and equally passionate) is Levante UD. The club’s nickname is Las Granotas, which means “the frogs”, a playful reference to their former stadium that once stood next to a canal filled with croaking residents. After some time in the Segunda División, Levante has been gaining momentum again since 2017. And here’s some great news: starting from the 2025/2026 season, the club is back at the top level of Spanish football, the Primera División. Thinking about attending a match or learning more about this unique club?
Origins of the Club
Levante UD was founded in 1909 under the name Levante Fútbol Club, named after the nearby beach. That same year, another team emerged: Gimnástico Fútbol Club. During the Spanish Civil War, Levante lost its playing field, while Gimnástico lost many of its players. After the war, the two clubs merged, forming what we now know as Levante Unión Deportiva.
In 1937, Levante won the Copa de la República by defeating Valencia CF in the final. Although the victory was later annulled by Franco’s regime, it was officially recognized by the Spanish Parliament in 2007.
Early Years
Levante played its first matches on a pitch near Valencia’s harbour. In 1934, the club made its debut in the Second Division. Over the following years, Levante achieved several remarkable successes, including victories over Valencia CF and FC Barcelona in the Spanish Cup. The club even reached the semi-finals of that tournament. In 1960, Levante earned promotion to La Liga, Spain’s top division.
2025/2026 Season
Now, Levante is back on the big stage. Starting in the 2025/2026 season, they will once again compete in LaLiga, great news for both fans and the city. Why? Because that means the fiery derbies against cross-town rivals Valencia CF are back on the calendar…
Derbi del Turia
The rivalry between Levante and Valencia is known as the Derbi del Turia, named after the old riverbed that once flowed through the city and now forms the famous Turia Park. Since their first official La Liga encounter in 1963, the two clubs have faced each other 32 times: Valencia CF has won 15 matches, Levante 8, and 9 have ended in a draw.
One of the most memorable clashes was Levante’s 4-2 victory during the 2006/2007 season, still their biggest derby win to date. However, Levante has yet to secure a win at Valencia CF’s home ground, the Mestalla, in a La Liga match.
If you happen to be in town during a derby, it’s well worth watching, whether live in the stadium or in a lively local bar broadcasting the game.
Famous Players
Over the years, Levante has had several players who later moved on to bigger clubs. For example, Keylor Navas played as goalkeeper for Levante before making his move to Real Madrid and later PSG. José Luis Morales, a long-time key player for the club, transferred to Villarreal CF in 2022. Sergio Ballesteros, who also played for Mallorca and Rayo Vallecano, is best known for his role as Levante’s captain. Félix Ettien spent nearly his entire career at Levante and was a consistent presence in midfield for many years.
Estadi Ciutat de València
Levante UD’s home ground is the Estadi Ciutat de València, located in the Orriols district. The stadium has a capacity of over 26,000 spectators and is known for its welcoming and laid-back atmosphere. You’ll be surprised how close you are to the pitch, perfect for anyone experiencing a Spanish football match for the first time.
- Estadi Ciutat de València
Carrer de Sant Vicent de Paül 44 - Website
Fanshop
Looking for a fun souvenir from your visit to Levante UD? At the club’s official fan shop, you’ll find shirts, scarves, caps and all kinds of other fan gear. The shop is located right next to the stadium, making it the perfect stop before or after the match.