Spain is set to launch another edition of one of the country’s most prestigious football tournaments. On October 6, the Luis Aragonés Hall, located at the Las Rozas Football Center, will host the draw for the first round of the 2025/26 Copa del Rey. This event officially marks the start of the new competition cycle.
A total of 112 teams will take part in the opening round, including clubs from the top division as well as representatives from Segunda División, Primera Federación, and lower tiers. This format gives smaller clubs the chance to face the country’s top opponents—a tradition that always sparks great interest among fans.
This year, four leading clubs—Real Madrid, Barcelona, Atlético, and Athletic from Bilbao—will not compete in the opening stage. These teams will enter the race for the trophy at the round of 32, having already secured places in the upcoming Supercopa de España. This system, introduced in 2019, is designed to ease the workload on the top sides.
First-round matches are scheduled for October 28, 29, and 30. All games will be played on the pitches of teams ranked lower in the Spanish football hierarchy. This rule maintains intrigue and provides extra motivation for lesser-known participants.
Football fans will be able to follow the draw live on Teledeporte, as well as on the RTVE Play online platform, and learn about the teams as the pairs are formed. The new season is expected to bring many surprising results and memorable moments, as the Copa del Rey is known for its unpredictability and drama.
