On the eve of the grand Copa del Rey final between Real Sociedad and Atlético de Madrid, the team from Deportes COPE Gipuzkoa visited San Sebastián City Hall. There, Mayor Jon Insausti welcomed them and expressed his excitement for this historic event, a feeling he says permeates the entire city. The mayor noted a “txuri-urdin nerve” that is palpable in the streets, shops, bars, and decorated balconies.
“"The cup must be lifted from the earth to the sky, so that he too can touch it. I believe that is the symbolism this victory also holds."
One of the most emotional moments of the interview came when Insausti recalled Aitor Zabaleta, the 'txuri-urdin' fan murdered in 1998. The mayor urged fans to be “exemplary,” emphasizing that this is the best possible tribute. According to Insausti, Real Sociedad fans are known for their exemplary behavior and for celebrating their identity in a healthy and natural way. He stressed that such conduct is the best homage to Zabaleta, his family, and all the supporters.
For fans not traveling to Seville, San Sebastián City Hall has installed two giant screens in Alderdi Eder, the largest in all of Euskadi. Insausti explained that this square was chosen for its “symbolism,” as it is where victories are celebrated, such as the 1987 Cup or the women's team's 2019 Copa de la Reina. The mayor highlighted the unity between the city and the team, asserting that they share values such as homegrown talent, city pride, perseverance, and results.
