On Monday, June 8, the center of Donostia will be completely closed to traffic due to the large-scale celebration of Real Sociedad’s victory. City authorities have announced strict restrictions on movement and parking to ensure safety and order during the team’s official reception. Thousands of fans are expected to gather on the streets to welcome the players and see the trophy won in Seville.
Route and schedule
The ceremonial bus carrying Real Sociedad players will depart at 18:00 from Anoeta stadium. The route will then pass along Avenida de Madrid, Pío XII, Sancho el Sabio, and Centenario Square. After this, the bus will move through the city center: Avenida de la Libertad, Okendo Street, and Boulevard, concluding at the Ayuntamiento building. Here, the main event will take place — the team will present the trophy to fans for the first time on Alderdi Eder Square.
Restrictions and measures
Starting today, parking is prohibited on all streets included in the bus route: Sancho el Sabio (toward the center), Urbieta (from San Martín to the intersection with Prim), Okendo (from Avenida de la Libertad to Bengoetxea), Lizarra (loading and unloading area), Manterola. Tomorrow, from 10:00 to 15:00, barriers will be installed, and from 15:00 onward, traffic along the route and adjacent streets will be completely closed. In the city center (from Avenida de la Libertad to Boulevard), the driving ban will remain until the end of the celebration. During this period, access will be allowed only for public transport, emergency services, residents, and for loading and unloading. Private vehicles will face temporary and total restrictions, which will be gradually lifted as the bus moves along the route.
Team’s return and airport gathering
Today, the Real Sociedad team returns from Seville: their flight is scheduled to depart at 12:00, with arrival in Hondarribia expected at 13:10. Fans will have the opportunity to meet the players right at the airport, after which the team will head to Zubieta. It’s anticipated that some supporters will follow the team’s bus at this stage as well.
Context and significance
Extensive security measures and traffic arrangements are due to a unique event for the region — Real Sociedad’s historic victory. Authorities emphasize that restrictions are necessary for the safety of participants and spectators. Similar large-scale events have repeatedly sparked discussions about transport and urban solutions in Spain, as was the case during major gatherings in Barcelona, covered in the story on the negotiations between the leaders of Spain and Brazil.
Residents and visitors of Donostia are advised to plan their routes in advance over the next 24 hours and take temporary restrictions into account. Authorities promise to promptly inform the public as roadblocks are lifted following the celebrations.
