The Barcelona–Real Madrid showdown is the biggest rivalry in Spanish soccer — the most anticipated clash every time the LaLiga schedule is drawn. Two dates that are circled in red by both Barça and Real Madrid fans, and by soccer followers around the world.
These high-stakes games feature some of the best players on the planet and often play a decisive role in the title race. Last season, Barça’s 4–3 win at Montjuïc marked a major turning point, effectively sealing the league title for Hansi Flick’s squad after a dramatic comeback.
Traditionally, the first Clásico of the season is played in late October, with the return leg taking place in late April or early May, just as the league reaches its final stretch. To maximize global viewership, one game is usually scheduled earlier in the day to cater to the massive Asian market, while the other is played at prime time in Spain.
2025/26 El Clásico dates confirmed
The first Clásico of the season will take place at the Santiago Bernabéu as part of Matchday 10, scheduled for the weekend of October 25–26, 2025. The return leg will be played at the Spotify Camp Nou — hosting a league Clásico for the first time in three years — during Matchday 35, on the weekend of May 9–10, 2026.
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These matches promise to be top-tier once again — the first Clásicos under Xabi Alonso as Real Madrid’s head coach, while Hansi Flick continues on the Barcelona bench after an impressive debut season.
Barcelona has made some big moves heading into the campaign, including the signing of goalkeeper Joan Garcia from city rivals Espanyol. The club is also expected to trigger Nico Williams’ €62 million release clause (adjusted for inflation) in the coming days.
On the other side, Real Madrid has strengthened significantly. In addition to the managerial change, they’ve added Huijsen, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Claudio Echeverri Mastantuono, with Álvaro Carreras expected to join soon.
