Venezuela FC: A Community Hub for Venezuelan Immigrants in Madrid
Venezuela FC in Madrid fosters community and cultural ties among Venezuelan immigrants.
Key Points
- • Venezuela FC was founded in 2018 by José Astudillo to connect Venezuelans in Spain.
- • The club has expanded to two registered teams and promotes unity among various nationalities.
- • It serves as a cultural anchor for members, helping them maintain their heritage.
- • Players feel a familial bond and express nostalgia for their homeland through the team.
Venezuela FC, a football club in Madrid founded in 2018, has become an essential community space for Venezuelan immigrants seeking connection and support in Spain. Established by José Astudillo, a former football coach fleeing Venezuela’s political turmoil, the club started as a casual gathering and swiftly grew to include two registered teams, reflecting the larger Venezuelan community's desire for solidarity abroad.
The club not only serves as a platform for sporting activity but also fosters a deep sense of nostalgia and cultural identity among its members. Its crest resembles the national team's emblem, and players don the traditional vinotinto colors, which together evoke memories of home. Members like Johan and Édgar express the sentiment of family within the team, while players Julio and Rafael underline the emotional connection the sport rekindles for them, serving as a reminder of their homeland.
Additionally, Venezuela FC is open to players from various nationalities, promoting a sense of unity among immigrants. Young members like Andrés and Eduardo cherish the opportunity to connect with their Venezuelan roots, fortifying the club’s role in preserving cultural ties. Long-time immigrant Gerson sums it up by stating, "We are not just representing Venezuela FC, we are representing Venezuela." The team exemplifies how sports can serve as a vital link for those navigating life in a foreign land, allowing them to retain their cultural identity while building meaningful connections.