Racing Santander to Host FC Barcelona in Copa del Rey Round of 16 Clash at El Sardinero
Racing Santander will host FC Barcelona at El Sardinero for the Copa del Rey round of 16 between January 13-15, featuring Racing’s impressive form against the defending champions.
- • Racing Santander to host FC Barcelona in Copa del Rey round of 16 from January 13-15, 2026.
- • Racing leads LaLiga Hypermotion and has strong goal-scoring form.
- • Captain Íñigo expressed excitement about facing Barcelona, recalling their last visit in 2012.
- • Other major matches include Real Madrid vs. Albacete and Atlético Madrid vs. Deportivo de La Coruña.
Key details
The historic Copa del Rey round of 16 encounter between Racing Santander and FC Barcelona is set to take place at the Campos de Sport de El Sardinero stadium from January 13 to 15, 2026. This single-elimination match draws considerable attention as Racing, currently leading LaLiga Hypermotion, prepares to challenge the defending champions, FC Barcelona.
Racing Santander reached this stage after decisive victories against SD Logroñés, SD Ponferradina, and notably Villarreal CF. Their strong offensive form, averaging over two goals per match, positions them as a formidable rival for Barcelona. The Catalan club's last visit to Santander's El Sardinero was nearly 14 years ago in 2012, a match remembered fondly by Racing's captain Íñigo. Reflecting on that journey, Íñigo shared, “Barcelona is a supercomplicated opponent but very exciting. Playing them here at Sardinero gives us a special occasion and we aim to progress further in the tournament.” As a child, Íñigo was a ball boy during Barcelona’s last visit, adding a personal excitement to the upcoming fixture.
The Copa del Rey draw also set other notable ties for prominent LaLiga Hypermotion teams. Real Madrid will face Albacete Balompié at Estadio Carlos Belmonte, revisiting a fixture last played in 2005, while Atlético de Madrid will meet Deportivo de La Coruña, which returns to this tournament stage after nine years. Both matches will run alongside the Racing-Barcelona tie from January 13-15.
This eagerly awaited match at El Sardinero presents a thrilling prospect, pitting Racing's current form and home advantage against Barcelona's experience and title defense ambitions. Fans across Spain are anticipating a memorable clash with high stakes as both teams aim to advance in the prestigious Copa del Rey competition.
This article was synthesized and translated from native language sources to provide English-speaking readers with local perspectives.
