When it comes to the title “Kings of Europe,” no team embodies the phrase better than Real Madrid. Known for their unparalleled success on the continental stage, Los Blancos have also solidified their legacy in Spanish football. Real Madrid holds the record for the most La Liga Titles won, an achievement that underscores their dominance domestically. But just how many La Liga titles have Real Madrid claimed?

Real Madrid has been crowned La Liga champions 36 times, a record unmatched by any other club in Spanish football. This incredible feat complements their dominance in European competitions, where they have also secured a record 15 UEFA Champions League titles. While La Liga remains the premier domestic competition in Spain, it has gained international acclaim, becoming one of the most-watched leagues globally, second only to the English Premier League.

A Legacy of Dominance

Since its inception in 1929, La Liga has been a proving ground for Spanish football’s best teams. Real Madrid was one of the league’s founding members, and they have never faced relegation in their illustrious 95-year history. The club’s ability to consistently remain at the top is a testament to their resilience, adaptability, and sheer skill.

Spain’s influence in world football extends far beyond its domestic league. Over the past two decades, Spanish teams have dominated international competitions, with Real Madrid leading the charge. The Spanish men’s and women’s national teams have also achieved remarkable success, highlighted by their 2024 UEFA European Championship win, 2024 Olympic gold medal, and the 2023 UEFA Nations League triumph.

On the women’s side, Spain’s national team secured the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup and the 2024 Women’s Nations League titles. Real Madrid’s contributions to Spanish and European football have cemented their place as the most decorated club in history.

Real Madrid’s Domestic Success

Domestically, Real Madrid has claimed 71 major titles, including:

• 36 La Liga titles
• 20 Copa del Rey trophies
• 13 Supercopas de España
• 1 Copa de la Liga
• 1 Copa Eva Duarte

In their 95 La Liga campaigns, Real Madrid has finished either first or second an incredible 61 times. This consistency has established them as the benchmark for excellence in Spanish football.

European and Global Supremacy

Real Madrid’s dominance is not confined to Spain. On the international stage, they are recognized as the most successful football club of all time. UEFA ranks them as the top team in their all-time European football rankings. Their achievements include:

• 15 UEFA Champions League titles
• 6 UEFA Super Cups
• 5 FIFA Club World Cups
• 2 UEFA Cups (Europa League)

Real Madrid has not lost a European final since their defeat to Liverpool in the 1981 European Cup final. Their most recent European triumph came in 2024, when they secured the UEFA Super Cup, adding to their already astonishing collection of 102 major trophies.

El Clásico: A Rivalry for the Ages

No discussion about Real Madrid would be complete without mentioning their eternal rivals, FC Barcelona. The two giants have battled for supremacy in Spain for over a century, giving rise to the iconic clash known as El Clásico.

While Real Madrid holds the record for the most La Liga titles (36), Barcelona is not far behind with 27 championships. Barcelona also edges out Madrid in Copa del Rey titles, with 31 wins compared to Real’s 20. However, when it comes to continental dominance, Real Madrid reigns supreme, boasting more Champions League titles than any other club in Europe.

Since the turn of the century, Madrid and Barcelona have collectively won 20 of the 24 available La Liga titles. Their rivalry extends to individual accolades as well, with both clubs producing 12 Ballon d’Or winners each.

Florentino Pérez and the Galácticos Era

Real Madrid’s modern success owes much to the vision of club president Florentino Pérez. Under his leadership, the club adopted the “Galácticos” policy, which aimed to sign the world’s biggest football stars.

The Galácticos era began with the controversial signing of Luís Figo from Barcelona, a move that sent shockwaves through the footballing world. Pérez followed this up by acquiring other superstars, including Zinedine Zidane, David Beckham, and Cristiano Ronaldo.

Ronaldo, arguably the greatest Galáctico, joined from Manchester United and became Real Madrid’s all-time leading scorer, netting 450 goals in 438 matches. During his time at the club, Ronaldo won four Ballon d’Or awards and led Madrid to four Champions League titles.

The latest addition to the Galácticos legacy is Kylian Mbappé, the 2018 World Cup winner. Mbappé’s debut for Madrid in the 2024 UEFA Super Cup was marked by a goal, signalling a bright future for the French superstar at the Bernabéu.

Rivalry and Respect

While Real Madrid and Barcelona dominate Spanish football, their rivalry is rooted in mutual respect for each other’s accomplishments. Together, they have elevated La Liga to international prominence, attracting millions of fans from around the world.

The two clubs have also played a significant role in shaping modern football, both in terms of tactics and talent development. Players like Lionel Messi, Xavi, and Andrés Iniesta for Barcelona, and Cristiano Ronaldo, Raúl, and Luka Modrić for Real Madrid, have left an indelible mark on the sport.

The Road Ahead

Real Madrid’s history is filled with triumphs, but the club is always looking forward. With a combination of experienced players and rising stars, Los Blancos aim to continue their dominance both domestically and internationally.

As they pursue their 37th La Liga title, Real Madrid remains the epitome of excellence in football. Their success serves as an inspiration to fans and players alike, proving that with hard work, resilience, and a touch of Galáctico magic, anything is possible.

Real Madrid is more than just a football club; it is a symbol of passion, excellence, and tradition. Whether it’s in La Liga, the Champions League, or El Clásico, Los Blancos continues to set the standard for greatness in the beautiful game.