UD Las Palmas: The Canary Islands’ Football Pride
Unión Deportiva Las Palmas, S.A.D., known as UD Las Palmas, is a professional football club based in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Canary Islands, Spain. With a unique history rooted in the community and a reputation as one of Spain’s most resilient clubs, Las Palmas has become a symbol of pride for the Canary Islands, competing against the mainland’s football giants with determination and flair.
UD Las Palmas History
UD Las Palmas was founded on August 22, 1949, as a result of a merger between five local clubs, uniting the footballing talent of the region to form a single, competitive team. The club’s debut season saw immediate success, earning promotion to the Segunda División. Remarkably, Las Palmas achieved back-to-back promotions, reaching La Liga in just their second season—a feat unmatched in Spanish football.
Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, Las Palmas established itself in the top flight, with their golden era arriving in the late 1960s. Under manager Vicente Dauder, the club finished third in La Liga in 1967–68 and were runners-up the following season, qualifying for European competition for the first time. The club’s fortunes fluctuated in subsequent decades, with periods of relegation and promotion between the top three divisions. Las Palmas has played at Estadio Gran Canaria since 2003, after leaving their historic Estadio Insular.
Most Famous Players
Las Palmas has produced and attracted a number of notable players, including:
- Juan Guedes: A legendary midfielder whose career and life were tragically cut short in 1971.
- Tonono: A stalwart defender and club icon from the golden era, also remembered for his early passing.
- Manolo Montes: The club’s first goalkeeper, who was later transferred to Atlético Madrid.
- David García: A modern-era captain and symbol of loyalty, with over 400 appearances for the club.
- Valerón: The technically gifted midfielder, who returned to his native Canary Islands to finish his career with Las Palmas.
Achievements
Las Palmas’ trophy cabinet reflects their resilience and competitive spirit:
- La Liga Runners-up: 1968–69
- La Liga Third Place: 1967–68
- Copa del Rey Runners-up: 1977–78
- Segunda División Champions: 1953–54, 1963–64, 1984–85, 1999–2000
- Segunda División B Champions: 1992–93, 1995–96
- Multiple Promotions to La Liga: Including most recently in 2022–23
The club is also renowned for being the only Spanish team to achieve back-to-back promotions to La Liga in its first two seasons of existence.
Net Worth
While specific financial figures are not publicly disclosed, UD Las Palmas is considered a modest club in terms of net worth compared to Spain’s giants. Their financial stability is rooted in prudent management, community support, and revenues from their 32,400-capacity Estadio Gran Canaria. Promotion to La Liga typically brings a significant boost in television rights and sponsorship income, enhancing the club’s financial position.
UD Las Palmas Summary
UD Las Palmas stands as a beacon of Canarian football, celebrated for its rapid rise, golden era in the 1960s, and enduring community spirit. Despite not boasting a vast trophy collection, the club’s history is marked by resilience, memorable achievements, and a passionate fan base. With a tradition of developing local talent and a fierce rivalry with CD Tenerife, Las Palmas continues to represent the heart and soul of football in the Canary Islands.
